Throughout the year, the three former school boards that would be amalgamated into the a new school district were trying to plan for a smooth transition. But it wasn't easy. Considerable debate and conflict swirled around the issue of how restructuring should take place. Finally, a mediator was brought in to help the three boards and their administrations agree on some fundamental principles for the merger. The agreement, reached in January, outlined a proposed reduction in elected school board members and administrative staff. It also set targets for the elimination of duplicated services.

A Transition Committee composed of representatives of each of the three original boards was created to preside over the amalgamation and plan for its implementation. You are a member of this committee and are expected to give sound advice to manage this very delicate merger. You know that a downsizing is inevitable, which makes the whole initiative emotional for everyone involved.