Budget plan ensures free meals for all students

During a recent government meeting, key financial updates and educational initiatives were discussed, highlighting the fiscal strategies and support programs for the upcoming year.

The meeting revealed that the district's debt service expenditures for the next fiscal year will amount to $10,074,075, covering two bond payments from 2016 and 2022. The INS tax rate is set at 0.1066, projected to generate approximately $7.4 million, with an additional $2.6 million drawn from the INS fund balance. This approach will maintain a fund balance of around $5 million, adhering to guidelines that recommend keeping at least half of the payment as a safety net without increasing the tax rate. The total tax rate remains at 0.8935 per $100 of assessed property value, reflecting a modest increase of 9 cents compared to the previous year.

In terms of educational support, the district is proud to continue its Community Eligibility Provision program, which provides all K-12 students with one free breakfast, lunch, and dinner during extended day activities. This initiative aims to ensure that students are well-fed and ready to learn, emphasizing the importance of nutrition in education.

Additionally, officials stressed the critical need for parents to complete an income survey included in the registration packet. Last year, the district lost access to funding for 648 students due to incomplete surveys, which are essential for securing supplemental programs, including Title I funding for after-school tutorials. The district is urging parents to recognize the importance of these surveys, as they directly impact the availability of resources for students.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to financial prudence while enhancing educational support for its students.