Before the first meeting with the school site council, which action should the principal perform to support budgeting?

• A. Estimating anticipated funding levels from each source of revenue
• B. Drafting new curriculum standards
• C. Conducting parent surveys on school climate
• D. Allocating funds to athletic programs

Answer: (A)

Estimating anticipated funding levels from each revenue source is essential because budgeting starts from knowing what money is actually available. By projecting revenue from state funds, local funds, federal funds, and grants, the principal can present a realistic budget framework to the school site council, highlight constraints, and guide a collaborative discussion on priorities and trade-offs. This grounded starting point helps the council make informed decisions about how to allocate resources to staffing, programs, and services.

Drafting new curriculum standards focuses on what students should learn, not how the budget will be funded. Conducting parent surveys on school climate informs engagement and environment rather than revenue. Allocating funds to athletic programs is an action that should follow once revenue levels are known, so you can make responsible choices within the available dollars.