"The full rollback on

millage is what our taxpayers want," says Board Member Gail Dean,

who in cooperation with district finance staff and incoming Superintendent

John Haro led the effort to produce a revenue neutral, no-tax-increase

budget proposal.

"The Board is pleased

to deliver on its commitment to the taxpayers, students, and employees

at the same time."

Dr. Haro attributes the financial

good news to a number of factors, including belt tightening, cutbacks

on out-of-system travel, a freeze on administrative hiring, and unexpected

revenue from improved tax collections.

"In this difficult financial

period, we wanted to stay the course, enhance instruction, and take care

of our students and staff while not adding an additional burden to the

taxpayers," says Dr. Haro.

"I congratulate the School

Board for its insight and direction. I am proud of the staff, especially

as I move to assume the reins of the school system on July 1. This budget

takes care of students and really puts them first. We are going in the

right direction," he concluded.

The final budget is expected

to be approved by the Board on June 12 at the board's monthly legislative

meeting. It begins at 7 p.m. in the Administrative Center boardroom, located

at 786 Cleveland Avenue SW in Atlanta.