Arizona Public Schools Find Ways to Adapt to Funding Cuts
Arizona consistently ranks among the lowest in the nation for its per-student funding. Funding levels continue to lag years after the Great Recession, and schools are finding their own ways to make ends meet. Solutions include principals doubling as teachers, 4-day school weeks and cutting costs through use of solar panels and low-maintenance artificial turf.
Keith Laake, president of Cost Control Associates, built his company on helping businesses and organizations save money through a careful examination of their utility costs for energy, waste removal and telecom. “Even if we were to work with a school district and find nothing, they feel better that they’ve had an expert look it and make sure everything is being billed right and that their costs are optimized,” Laake said. “Fortunately, for most school districts, we do find things.”
Lisa Miller is marketing and communications manager for Cost Control Associates. She joined Cost Control Associates in 2015, bringing more than 25 years of experience in marketing and corporate communications to her position. Lisa earned her BA from Skidmore College. Learn more.