It’s hard to believe that we are in the last quarter of the school year. The growth and success of our children is due to the partnership between parents, school and the community. We can be very proud of our students and staff as they work together and diligently to achieve growth.
Student Attendance: The district established clear expectations for improving attendance, and our students are reaping the benefits as we’ve seen a reduction in both chronic absenteeism and truancy. This progress is a result of setting clear goals and collaborating with students, families, and the county attorney to implement proactive measures that support regular attendance.
Academic Progress: Our district report card shows that students are making academic strides overall. However, we recognize the need for improvement in the academic growth of all of our students and a need to focus on our special education students. To address this, we’ve developed a targeted plan outlining the work needed to ensure our students have the support they need to succeed.
District Culture and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support: Each of the six champion teams has made meaningful contributions to improving district culture and strengthening our Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). Their work continues to positively impact students and staff, fostering a stronger and more inclusive learning environment that leads to student growth.
Early Childhood Center Update: Construction on the new early childhood center is progressing, although delays due to the procurement of steel beams have pushed the anticipated opening to October or November. We are making plans for temporary classrooms so that all children are in one building, and we can vacate the building at 801 N. Elm. St.
As a reminder, this project stems from the high costs associated with repairing the Burton R. Jones gymnasium (due to a collapsing culvert) and renovating the Elm Street building. The early childhood center is funded through SAVE/PPEL dollars, which are specifically allocated for facility improvements, technology and transportation. These funds are restricted and cannot be used for staff compensation.
2025-2026 Budget Planning: District administration has worked to minimize the budget implication on our children. The 2025-2026 budget challenges are due to years of declining enrollment and rising costs. Below are the key budgetary factors and their implications:
Key Budgetary Factors
Budget Factor Amount
Enrollment Decrease (55.39 students) $432,308.00
Estimated Operating Budget Increases $100,000.00
Estimated Settlement CEA. $288,508.00
Estimated Settlement AFSCME $113,886.00
Estimated Admin & Non-Union Costs $49,173.00
Estimated Total New Costs $983,875.00
Estimated 2% SSA New Revenue $208,172.00
Targeted Savings from TLC Flex $400,000.00
Targeted Savings from TQPD Flex $35,185.00
Estimated Savings Custodial Services $104,500.00
Estimated Savings from Transportation $12,641.00
Estimated Savings AEA Flex $198,900.00
Estimated Savings Reduction In Force $68,941.00
Estimated Cost Savings Target $1,028,339.00
We appreciate everyone’s patience as we address the budget and make adjustments. I am confident that school improvement and student growth will continue. The only program that is being eliminated is Teacher Leadership, which will be shifted to administrators and other designated district staff. While positions are being reduced and absorbed and the district restructures, our staff will continue to support the needs of our children.
Community Engagement: We are fortunate to have many opportunities for our community to enjoy the work and talents of our students. I encourage you to visit the district website for a full schedule and to join us in supporting our students. Your involvement makes our schools a source of pride for the community.
I welcome you to join me for free coffee and engaged conversation on the third Tuesday of each month at a local coffee shop. I will be at McDonald’s on Tuesday, April 15, from 7:30-8:30 a.m. The Coffee and Conversation schedule is available on the district website.
Thank you for your continued support of our students, staff and schools.