The proposed $225,885,332 budget would lead to a two percent increase in the tax levy for the 2013-2014 school year. Five members voted to support the budget, while three voted against it and Trustee Brenda Crump abstained.
There will be a statewide public vote on the budget on May 21.
The district will pay nearly $6 million more in retirement benefits as state mandates continue to soar. The elimination of 30 positions will save more than $3.5 million, while the loss of summer school will save an extra $200,000.
This budget avoids cutting most student resources and preserves full-day kindergarten, sports and honors programs in the high school. It allows for funds to be directed toward upgrading technology and on a new effort to improve literacy in younger grades.
“We’re doubling the proposed investment in kindergarten for reading,” interim Superintendent of Schools Judith Johnson said. “Unless people see the dollars as an investment in their children and the future, they won’t accept it.”
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