District 197 Chalk Talk: Board Takes First Look at Budget for 2012-2013

The reviewed preliminary budget adjustment recommendations for the 2012-2013 school year Monday at .  Additional spending proposals include adding three FTE positions to the and providing $50,000 for instrument repairs, and expansion of , College in the Schools, AVID and programs.

Reductions include an associate principal at the high school, a reduction of .4 FTE in elementary counseling services, and restructuring of technology services. Check back with Patch for more details on the proposed budget adjustments later today.

• Administrators recognized six individuals in the district.  was recognized for earning a perfect score of 36 on his ACTs. Four teachers from the district were recognized for being nominated as candidates.  bus driver Frank Dehrer was recognized for providing a safe and positive atmosphere for the students on his bus. Principal Joni Hagebock said Dehrer steps out of the bus and sends off the students with an encouraging word or a fist-bump in the morning.

• Jennifer Parker and Susan Powell provided an update on Garlough Environmental Magnet School. Parker described “incredible, positive changes” at the school over recent years. Powell and Parker presented the “ABCs of Garlough,” showcasing the various lesson types and learning initiatives underway.

• Pat Johnson of Henry Sibley and Joe Nathan and Paj Ntaub Lee of Macalester College’s Center for School Change presented on how the district is meeting the requirements of a college readiness grant. The first-year program has worked to increase exposure and education about post-secondary options for students and their families, particularly in the ESL community.

• Interim Superintendent Tom Nelson emphasized that the recent at the state level will not result in new money for the district, but rather will accelerate payments to the school in “a more timely fashion.”

• Communications Director Susan Brott gave an overview of the superintendent search timeline. The job posting closes March 12.

• The board approved a resolution to pass on a portion of the operating levy to the East Metro Integration District corresponding with the district’s students enrolled at the integration district’s two schools. The district’s integration plan and budget were approved. The plan emphasizes staff development and student achievement as a gauge of success.

• An agreement described as “tentative" between the district and the Teamsters Local 320-Secretaries was approved by the board. School Board member Dewayne Dill said thanks to the secretarial staff. “They often times are unsung.”