We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in the voting process on Tuesday, May 21st, to approve the 2024-2025 school budget and select three Board of Education members. Your engagement and support are invaluable to our district.
The approval of the $36,999,000 budget plan for the upcoming school year, representing a $969,000 (2.69%) increase over the current year, demonstrates your commitment to the education and well-being of our students. The estimated overall tax levy increase of 2.73% aligns with the allowable tax levy cap, reflecting our dedication to maintaining fiscal responsibility.
We recognize the challenges posed by the decrease in state aid, which necessitates difficult decisions, including the reduction of positions through attrition and other personnel cuts. Despite these constraints, we are committed to minimizing the impact on class sizes and academic programs. The addition of an English Language Learner teacher and a special education teacher underscores our focus on serving our diverse student population effectively.
This budget ensures that all sports and extra-curricular programs will be preserved, allowing our students to benefit from a well-rounded education. By maintaining these programs, we continue to support our students' growth and achievement, aligning with our vision for the 2030 Destination.
Superintendent Randall Squier stated, "This budget proposal allows us to continue to help students reach our 2030 Destination and support every child, every day. At the same time, the budget is designed to minimize future cuts to programs as we anticipate smaller or no increases in state aid in the upcoming fiscal years. We are mindful that it is important for us to present a budget that balances our responsibility to provide a sound education for the children in our community and our residents’ ability to afford it."
Your continued support and involvement are crucial as we navigate these financial challenges and strive to provide the best possible education for our students. Thank you for your dedication to our schools and our community.
Congratulations to Bart Wallace and Kyle Garland on being re-elected to the board and welcome Sam Anderson to the Board of Education.
Budget Total Yes: 386
Budget Total No: 238