Wayzata School Board Approves Preliminary Levy Increase Amid Financial Adjustments
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
09/23/2024
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Recording Published:
09/23/2024
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Duration:
162 Minutes
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State:
Minnesota
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County:
Hennepin County
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Towns:
Corcoran, Maple Grove, Medicine Lake, Medina, Minnetonka, Orono, Plymouth, Shorewood, Wayzata
- Meeting Overview:
The Wayzata School Board convened on September 23, 2024, to discuss and approve the preliminary 2024 payable 2025 levy limitation and certification, with a focus on financial matters, mental health programs, and educational assessments.
The meeting’s most discussion centered on the approval of the preliminary levy, facilitated by Scott Lage, Executive Director of Finance and Operations. Lage provided a comprehensive breakdown of the levy process, emphasizing the cyclical nature of these discussions and the collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE). The board was urged to certify the preliminary tax levy at its maximum amount, highlighting factors such as legislative influences, student enrollment figures, and market values. Lage pointed out that the district has seen a notable rebound in student enrollment post-pandemic, which is important for the levy calculations. He noted, “we’ve seen a pretty big bounce back,” indicating the district’s recovery in this area.
The preliminary levy approval is the first part of a two-step process, with the final amount to be certified at the December board meeting. Lage explained the expected increases and decreases, with an overall levy increase of 4.2%, slightly down from 4.9% the previous year. The general fund was projected at around $75 million, with a 3.93% increase, while community education funding was expected to rise by 4.7%. He elaborated on the factors affecting the operating referendum, noting the impact of enrollment adjustments and legislative allowances.
A notable point of discussion was a prior period adjustment amounting to 1.5 million dollars, recognized in the current year due to an error by the MDE related to lease levy dollars. This adjustment was seen as a positive development for the district’s financial standing. The proposed general fund for the upcoming year was approximately $75.4 million.
The board also discussed the importance of community service funding, which is important for programs such as school-age care. The debt service section of the budget included several categories, with a requirement to collect 105 percent for principal and interest payments, highlighting the district’s high percentage of payment with approximately $245 million in bonded debt.
Further analysis included the distinction between local optional revenue and other forms of funding, with historical context provided for legislative decisions that created local optional revenue. Lage emphasized that increasing market values and net tax capacity could potentially spread the tax levy burden across a larger taxpayer base, although rising property valuations could counterbalance this benefit. The board unanimously approved the motion to certify the preliminary levy to the maximum amount allowed by the state.
The meeting also introduced new administrators within the district. Superintendent Dr. Anderson introduced Carly Bailey, the new assistant principal at West Middle School. Bailey expressed her excitement about joining the district, noting a personal connection due to her father’s past role as superintendent. Dr. Anderson also introduced Cassie Van Coveran, the new associate principal at Sunset Hill Elementary, underscoring her extensive experience within the district.
Another topic was the presentation on the Wells Well-Being Advisor Program, introduced by the Executive Director of Human Resources. The program, in place for five years, evolved from a traditional Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to a more comprehensive offering that includes dedicated well-being advisers. These advisers, Christina and Katie, provided immediate support without long wait times, a challenge in external mental health services.
The program allows virtual appointments and addresses issues from stress and anxiety to family dynamics and addiction. The collaboration between Wayzata Public Schools and M Health Fairview facilitated the establishment of this personalized support system. The program’s flexibility, permitting staff to return for support as needed without time limits, contributed to its success.
The meeting also highlighted the district’s goals for student achievement, particularly in closing racial and economic achievement gaps. The discussion centered around the FastBridge assessments and their role in identifying student needs, with a emphasis on ensuring students meet age-appropriate expectations in language and social-emotional areas. The board discussed specific data points illustrating student performance across various demographics and the importance of timely data collection through universal screenings.
The discussion provided historical context and explored differing opinions on whether the pledge fosters unity or has religious and political implications. The session concluded with a reminder that the discussion was informational and not a voting session.
School Board Officials:
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
09/23/2024
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Recording Published:
09/23/2024
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Duration:
162 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Minnesota
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County:
Hennepin County
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Towns:
Corcoran, Maple Grove, Medicine Lake, Medina, Minnetonka, Orono, Plymouth, Shorewood, Wayzata
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