A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the truth in taxation hearing, where the intricacies of the 2024 budget and property tax levy were explained. Amy Schultz led the presentation, emphasizing the complexities of state-mandated property tax calculations, which involve extensive formulas. Schultz outlined that the district’s control over its budget is limited by these state laws, although it has the ability to levy less than the maximum allowed, which can risk losing state aid. For the 2024-25 school year, the total revenues and expenses are projected around $128 million, with compensation for staff representing a substantial 77% of expenditures. The proposed 2.43% increase in the property tax levy includes all key funds: general, community service, and debt service.

Schultz highlighted the potential decrease in state subsidies, specifically the significant drop in equalization aid, which could increase the tax burden on property owners. The presentation concluded with a detailed breakdown of the levy, including adjustments and abatements necessary due to projections and property value appeals. The community service levy saw a notable 10% increase, primarily due to school-age care program expenses.

Following the taxation discourse, the board transitioned to the annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. The audit, presented by Amy Schultz and Aaron Neelon, yielded an “unmodified opinion,” confirming the fair presentation of the district’s financial statements. The audit identified one compliance issue related to group insurance contracts, recommending future adherence to rebid requirements. Federal awards and the district’s average daily membership were also examined, with a slight decrease noted in student numbers. The financial stability of the district was affirmed, with cash and investments adequately growing to meet demands.

The board also delved into the district’s operational plan, focusing on transformative upgrades to learning spaces and furniture. The pandemic had previously delayed these plans, but a bond passed earlier is now facilitating these enhancements. The design process, driven by teams of teachers and school principals, focused on creating engaging, flexible learning environments. The teams developed three distinct furniture kits tailored to different grade levels, emphasizing adaptability to meet diverse student needs. The rollout of this furniture is anticipated by June, with installations set to transform classrooms across the district, excluding Centerview.

Further discussions covered the district’s financial performance in October 2024, noting federal aid contributions and consistent spending patterns in the general fund. Superintendent updates highlighted various district programs, such as survival skills training and community service initiatives. The meeting concluded with a resolution to establish combined polling places for school district elections, confirming Grace Evangelical Free Church and the National Sports Center Welcome Center as new venues.