By Bethany Bray
Andover Public Schools have been ordered to lower their thermostats by two degrees, a move Bernie Tuttle, interim business administrator, hopes will save thousands in utility bills and help close a budget deficit.
Tuttle sent a memo to all principals, senior custodians and plant and facilities department administration last week requesting heat in all school buildings be lowered 2 degrees, or from an average low classroom temperature of 68 to 66 degrees.
"We're looking at a deficit in this year's budget, and I'm looking to save some money. It's hard to say how much (the savings) will be. It depends on the weather. But every little bit will help," said Tuttle. "If I can save $5,000 or $10,000 between now and April vacation, I'll be satisfied. If we get a warm spell, we'll do better."
Tuttle said the schools are facing a $600,000 deficit this year.
Although the heat turn-back has coincided with a warm spell, principals throughout the district have been asking parents to dress their children accordingly, adding extra layers if needed.
Tuttle said he chose not to turn the heat down earlier in the winter, when heating bills are at their highest.
"We thought that as things progressed during the budget year, perhaps other actions we've taken, including a freeze on the budget, would have mitigated the deficit, and to some extent it has," said Tuttle. "By this time of year, we're limited as to the action we can take. If we can save a few dollars, we will."
On Tuesday, March 9, High Plain Elementary Principal Pamela Lathrop said her staff has not noticed the two-degree difference, and she has even received emails from parents supporting the money-saving idea.
West Middle School Principal Steve Murray took the change in stride, and said his staff is monitoring room temperatures to make sure students are comfortable and the building remains conducive to learning.
Joe Piantedosi, director of plant and facilities, and Tuttle agreed that school staff can use discretion for spaces - and employees - that are colder than others.
Tuttle, who stepped in this fall to replace outgoing business administrator David Keniston, said he's employed thermostat turn-back as a money-saving tactic in Andover before. Tuttle was also an interim administrator before Keniston was hired in April 2008.
"For the most part I haven't gotten much pushback. The staff understands the deficit situation," said Tuttle this week.
