The Northshore School District Board of Directors has announced several opportunities for parent and public comment on the upcoming 2010-11 budget.

Washington legislators are expected to end their current session this month. Local school officials have expressed fears that Northshore schools could see reductions in funding of up to $6 million.

“Without community support of our local bond and levies, this shortfall would have been much greater,” said Board President Dawn McCravey. “Sixty-five percent of our budget comes from the state and we may have to make painful cuts to balance the 2010-11 budget. We are looking for our community’s help with this difficult task.”

Three so-called “Conversations with the School Board” are set for the coming weeks. The times and dates are as follows: 3-5 p.m. March 16; 1-3 p.m. March 17; and, 6-8 p.m. March 18.

The events are set for the Northshore Administrative Center, 3330 Monte Villa Parkway, Bothell.

According to a district release, each session will focus on the following four questions:

● What are your priorities for education as we make decisions about the budget?

● What are your ideas for cost savings?

● What are your thoughts on basic education and enrichment?

● What are ways to help?

Budget workshops will be held April 20-22. Each session is slated for 6-8 p.m. with locations as follows: April 20 at Bothell High; April 21 at Inglemoor High; and April 23 at Woodinville High.

The district will also post a survey on its Web site April 13-22 for those who are unable to attend a budget workshop. The survey will include the same questions asked at budget workshops.

Information about the 2010–11 budget process is available online or by contacting the Communications Department at (425) 408-7670. People may also e-mail their questions to budget@nsd.org. A budget information guide will be mailed to district families by April 1.