Poll of the Week: Should School Districts Outsource Services?

In order to save money, local school districts including Lake Orion and are considering outsourcing services.

On Monday, the Rochester Board of Education a range of non-instructional services including transportation, parking lot attendants, custodial and partial grounds services. Superintendent Fred Clarke announced a savings of about $2 million annually is possible if the district went through with outsourcing services.

“You're dropping your child off with a stranger, and knowing they are part of the district adds accountability,” Stephen Frye said in reference to the outsourcing of bus drivers on Oakland Township Patch’s Facebook page. “A for-profit company will insist that profits are more important than a child's safety.”

Lake Orion Community Schools have already finalized their , allowing them to receive bids from for the district. John Fitzgerald, assistant superintendent of business and finance for the Lake Orion district noted savings of between $1 million and $1.69 million for the district if they awarded a bid to a private company.

“It is sad to see ‘outsourcing’ in an environment that is meant to nurture children and young minds. Where is the sense of community in this?” Lisa Taddiken questioned on Facebook.

Likewise, Daisie Jan Dance of Rochester commented on Oakland Township Patch’s Facebook page.

“These custodians (or bus drivers, cafeteria workers...whoever!) could be community members, neighbors and even parents of kids who go to the schools. They have a vested interest in the school!” Dance said.

What do you think? Should local school districts outsource services to save money? Tell us why they should or shouldn’t in the comments.