Highlights from the January Board of Education Meeting

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING

January 14, 2013

Board members were recognized for their service to the Ida Public Schools. They spend a considerable amount of time reading and reviewing recommendations while researching pertinent topics so that they can make informed decisions at the board table. Additionally, they provide an important link to the community while attending athletic events, band concerts and other co-curricular activities.

Mrs. Horney and Mrs. Galloro were sworn into service as they begin a new four-year term. Thank you for running for office and volunteering your time to help Ida Public Schools’ meet their strategic goals.

The Board Officers were selected for the 2013 calendar year:  Mark Mathis, President; Dale Heil, Vice-President; Brian DeLand, Treasurer; and Jody Hoffman, Secretary.

The Board approved an eighth grade class trip to Washington D.C. in the spring of 2014. Ms. Sharon Waldron will be hosting a parent meeting, providing fundraising opportunities and planning the trip for the students.

A Millage renewing the 18 mil non-homestead property tax will be placed on the ballot in May. Typically this renewal goes before the voters every 5 years. The property tax is on business property only and does not apply to homeowners. The 18 mil levy brings in approximately $600,000 in revenue to the Ida Public School District.

The 2013 budget is in good shape. The updated projections indicate that the district will overspend by $189,396 which will leave a fund equity of $3,862,043. However, the initial budget projections for 2014 reveal a one year budget deficit of $1,104,475 which is very troubling. Please contact your legislative representatives and encourage them to increase funding for education.

After hearing a summary of the district-wide Safety Meeting the Board of Education appointed a sub-committee of the Board to examine safety practices. Mrs. Galloro, Mr. Janssen and Mrs. Horney will study the issue and consider potential updates and modifications to our plans. Moreover, there is another community Safety Meeting scheduled for April 25 at 7:00 p.m. in the high school library to provide a summary of district activities and plans since December.

Once approved, the meeting minutes are posted on the district web-site at www.idaschools.org.