Schuyler board adopts 2025–26 budget and levy, approves evaluation changes and several operational motions

The Schuyler Community Schools board unanimously approved a package of fiscal and operational measures at its September meeting, including adoption of the 2025–26 budget, a property‑tax resolution setting the district’s proposed levy at 99¢ per $100 of assessed value, and several administrative motions related to operations and personnel oversight.

Budget and levy: Administration presented a proposed tax request of $19,625,164 and explained the district’s assessed valuation rose roughly 11 percent, which reduced equalization aid by about $80,000; the proposed levy of 99¢ per $100 assessed value represents a 7¢ reduction in levy rate while the overall tax asking is about 4 percent higher than the prior year. The board moved and approved the levy resolution and the 2025–26 budget on unanimous roll calls.

Personnel and operations votes: The board voted to recognize the Schuyler Community Schools Education Association as the exclusive bargaining group for the coming negotiation year. The board also approved a motion to surplus two buses (a 2009 Thomas Saf‑T‑Liner, bus #71, and a 2012 International) with proceeds to be deposited to the district depreciation fund. Separately, the board approved proposed revisions to the certified‑staff evaluation handbook: a three‑year formal observation cycle for tenured staff supplemented by 16 unannounced walkthroughs annually and adjusted observation schedules for non‑tenured staff; administration noted final implementation may require state approval.

Each motion was moved, seconded, and carried on roll‑call votes recorded in the meeting minutes. The board’s passage of the budget and levy completes the formal local approval required before certifying the district’s property‑tax request to the county clerk.