Approving the tentative budget for the current fiscal year along with a construction report on Lincoln School topped the discussion last night by the Rochelle Elementary Board.
The fiscal year budget is looking at a deficit of around $500,000. Expenditures are totaling around 32.2 million dollars with revenue at 26.6 million dollars. This includes 5.1 million dollars for the site and construction costs of the new school.
Superintendent Todd Prusator said that figures are expected to change before the budget is approved next month by the board. He said the district will have to watch expenses closley for the next 12 months.
The district saw an increase of 15.5% in health insurance premiums along with 5% for dental coverage. The vision insurance premiums remained the same.
The board heard an update report on the construction of Lincoln School off 20th street. The foundation is done and masonry work is expected to begin next week on the walls. Prusator is satisfied with the progress so far on the project.
The district also plans to apply for the 21st Century Learning Community Center grant. The grant would extend learning opportunities for students and families after school and during the summer. The Middle School along with May and Central grade schools would be the sites for the program. The 5-year grant is up to $150,000 a year at each building. The grants will be awarded by November 1st.
Central and Lincoln Grade Schools have also been labeled as "Choice" buildings. Families involving 18 students have decided to move their child to Tilton Grade School or May Grade School.
The board met in executive session to talk about personnel and the teacher's contract. No action was taken. Negotiations continue with the union.
