Marion school board faces budget crunch
The board of education members of Marion-Florence Unified District 408 found themselves between the horns of dilemma Monday night.
While they described the financial crises at hand, making reference to it as "the budget crunch," board members didn't offer much hope of lower expenses though there will be a decline in enrollment.
Three newly-elected board members were present: Chris Sprowls, Kathy Meierhoff, and Sarah Cope. They will replace Susan Robson, Bruce Skiles, and Doug Sharp in July. Rex Savage was re-elected.
About 30 visitors attended the meeting, mostly teachers supporting new textbooks for reading and spelling and MESBIT (Marion Elementary School Building Improvement Team) members asking that the board not make any further reductions in staffing at Marion Elementary School.
The co-chairmen of MESBIT, Elaine Shannon and Lana Fahey, said "our goal is to provide the best education for our students." They said it is anticipated that students will be brought to grade level achievement in reading and math by the sixth grade.
They also pointed to the mission statement of the school district, "to excite and empower life-long learners."
They pointed out that more money is needed, in spite of declining enrollment. They suggested a higher local option budget (mill levy), grant funds, and other unspecified options.
They said, "enrollment numbers alone don't reflect on those kids who have needs which can't be transferred into numbers."
They asked the board to not make any decisions "which would negatively impact the students of USD 408." They were applauded by the large audience.
There was considerable discussion on the costs of the annual summer school which teaches math and reading in grades K-8.
Missy Steubenhofer, the coordinator and supervisor, presented a budget of $23,644.29 which she said was about the same as last year. Summer school is scheduled June 30 to July 18 except for Independence Day.
It provides for teachers to be paid at their regular daily rate (from $139 to $205 a day). All teachers would have five planning days and from eight to 14 teaching days. Salaries would run from $1,835 to $4,043.
Member Keith Collett questioned the five planning days, "are that many necessary for eight to 14 days of teaching?"
Collett also stated that while he knew planning is necessary, "there is a trend to use all the days allowed."
Member Roger Hannaford III reminded "we're in a budget crunch. We must cut back on planning time. We may not have enough money to justify this. We need summer school," Hannaford said, "but I don't know if we have the money."
Dues to the Kansas Association of School Boards, in the amount of $5,429 were approved by unanimous vote.
Jami Williams, a patron, said "We are here to teach the kids. Curriculum is not the place to cut." She said the district should cut back on extra-curricular activities and suggested students might pay for participating in sports programs.
Member Susan Robson moved that the program be allowed, "but keep track of planning time." It carried 6-1 with Hannaford opposed.
Three MHS senior students were approved to participate in a work study program next year. They are Hannah Eis, Emily Davis, and Stephen Bowers.
Teacher Julie Trapp gave a report on new books being requested for reading and spelling. She said they have unanimous approval by the faculty, "and we're not happy with the present material."
Missy Steubenhofer said text books are usually replaced every five years. She suggested the present ones are ready to be replaced.
She said the new books tie spelling words to "your reading and grammar."
Trapp said the new books for K-6 would cost about $45,000. "And support material will be supplied free, except for shipping."
Teachers will be trained by the publishing company.
Principal Stan Ploutz said he favored the new books.
The board took it under advisement for future action.
MHS graduation requirements were studied, including combining health with PE in Marion Middle School to provide more time for computer literacy.
Computer courses are being recommended for freshman students.
Doug Sharp gave the special education report and Roger Hannaford III gave the TEEN report.
When the school calendar was presented by Supt. Gerry Henderson, Collett mentioned "we are not having school 8 1/2 days out of 22 in March and April." He said it is mainly due to spring break and Easter break, plus "snow days."
Board President Rex Savage said he'd prefer a shorter spring break so students could get out of school earlier in the spring.
The calendar was approved with Henderson asked to fine tune it. It carried 6-0 with Collett not voting.
The agenda was approved, minutes approved, bills allowed, and the treasurer's report received without question.
Hired and fired
Following a 90 minute executive session from 8:30 to 10 p.m., the board took some fast action.
Three full-time faculty positions were eliminated: MES counselor, MES Spanish, and one first grade position.
Also eliminated were part time support positions: MES teacher aide and a half-time bus driver.
Added was one section of half-day kindergarten and one hour to the contract of Deanna Thierolf to become a full time teacher.
Kelli Chisholm, second grade, Chris Ware, fifth grade, and Ginger Robert, MES basketball coaching position were eliminated.
Contracts non-renewed, for reasons of lower enrollment and lack of funding, were Tony Aappone and Counselor Kerry Dees.
Counselor Phoebe Janzen's contract was extended by 20 days. She had been paid on an hourly basis. The 20 days will not result in increased spending, Superintendent Gerry Henderson said.
Members of the audience spoke up. "I have yet to hear about cutting athletic programs or administrative costs," Beth Watson said. "Our administrators have already been offered contracts, with raises."
President Savage said administrative contracts are normally renewed in January.
He said the board also had considered cutting back to four days a week, but research indicated it wouldn't be feasible. "It would have negative education impact, and not save many dollars."
Jami Williams said the Marion-Florence district superintendent is the highest paid administrator in the county. "The staff is being cut, but the administrators got raises."
Member Collett likened the night's meeting to having root canal dental work.
But Savage invited the group to "keep showing up." He said the board will move to a larger room if necessary.
The meeting which started at 7 p.m. was adjourned at 10:30 p.m.
