Superintendent Beth Schwarz presented a report from the Minnesota Department of Education concerning calculations for levy limitation and certification at the October 1, 2015 meeting of the Cook County School Board. Although several formulas are considered to determine the number of pupils at ISD 166, Board Member Terry Collins noted the declining enrollment figures across all categories.
The current levy limitation for taxes payable in 2015 is $1,117,000. This amount increases to $1,127,000 for taxes payable in 2016. The increase of just less than one percent does not include the additional increase which will take place if the voters approve the referendum scheduled for election by mail-in ballots November 3, 2015.
The total levy figures include a board approved operating levy of $300 per pupil unit or $144,000. This portion of the levy was allowed to be approved by the board without voter participation at a meeting several months ago.
School asks county for funding
Schwarz and Board Chair Jeanne Anderson attended a county commissioner meeting and requested a $15,000 distribution for use in the school’s youth enrichment program. Although the county board took no official action, Schwarz said the requested amount is included in the county’s preliminary levy.
Board refinances existing bond
The board ratified the sale of a $2.7 million refunding bond to Robert W. Baird and Company of Milwaukee Wisconsin. The bond essentially refinances at an interest rate of just over 2 percent, an existing bond that had an interest rate of 3 percent. The new interest rate will save the district $94,000 over seven years.
According to Cook County Auditor Braidy Powers the county must mail the ballots for the ISD 166 Operating Levy Referendum out before October 20. Powers expects to have all of the ballots sent out by Friday, October 16.
Ballots must be returned by mail or hand-delivered to the Auditor’s Office in the Cook County courthouse by 8 p.m. on November 3, 2015.
Anyone with questions about voting is encouraged to call the Auditor’s Office at 218-387-3640.
Citizens with questions about the ISD 166 Operating Levy are encouraged to visit www.fundingourfuture.org or email questions to isd166levy@gmail.com.
In other business
. A first reading on a revised policy for off campus lunch by seniors was considered by the board. The revision added that a senior would not lose open campus privileges for missing up to five full school days for family vacations that have had prior approval and notification to district administration. A second reading and approval of the policy will be considered at the next board meeting.
. Principal Adam Nelson reported that ACT and MAPS testing are going well. Cook County students are scoring in line with Minnesota state averages. A preparatory program has been enabling students to increase their score by as much as three full points.
. Nelson also reported that the current seniors are developing into good student leaders, which is trickling down to the younger classes. He has not had to deal with nearly as many behavioral problems as in previous years. This has allowed him to increase the number of teacher evaluations he performs.
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