ANDERSON — Anderson Community Schools announced Saturday six members of the new advisory panel created to examine ways the school district can meet mounting financial challenges.

The 10-person panel and facilitator Jim Schellinger will conduct a series of public workshops to find ways the school system can address declining enrollment and an estimated $5 million funding shortfall in 2010.

ACS also announced tentative dates for the first two workshops. The first series could take place Dec. 4, 6 and 8. The second could take place Dec. 13, 15 and 18. No possible locations or times have been announced.

The Herald Bulletin’s editorial board has agreed to select individuals for the panel’s four remaining seats. That announcement is expected to come early this week.

“These appointments, and those forthcoming, are a reflection on our community’s commitment to quality education, diversity and public service,” Superintendent Mikella Lowe said in a statement. “Indeed, I am humbled by their willingness to serve, and I have great confidence in their leadership, ability and good judgment.”

Continued enrollment declines and reductions in tax draws mean the school district is looking to cut roughly 5 percent of its annual operating budget. The administration has already prepared data on how closing schools could save the district as much as $3.9 million.

School board President Teddy Bohnenkamp praised the panel for its diverse makeup that includes community leaders, ACS graduates, parents and grandparents.

“I’m hoping we’re on a good road of communication and transparency,” she said.

Lowe has asked that the panel submit recommendations to the school board no later than March 31, after members have completed four phases of public workshops.

---------

ACSC Challenge 2010 Advisory Panel

Appointed by board members

— James Edwards, president of Anderson University

— Gary Boards, retired autoworker

Appointed by Superintendent Mikella Lowe