On April 1, approximately 25 residents were on hand when the non-instructional components of the 2001-02 proposed school budget was presented at a board of education work session.

According to the school board, there are minor increases forecast for some areas such as central administration, while there are more major expenditures proposed in other areas. The district's community relations department seeks a 26.67 percent increase due mainly to the increased district programs and increased postage. The personnel office proposes a 12 percent increase for equipment, supplies, conferences, travel, and miscellaneous expenses. Operation and maintenance of the school district plant will run 10.76 percent higher than last year due to increasing fuel oil, power and light. Maintenance and grounds expects an increase of 13.86 percent for custodians as well as enhanced maintenance projects throughout the district. Staff and student insurance costs will both run slightly higher, while central data processing expects a decrease in spending of 5.7 percent due to staff turnover.

The largest increase comes from transportation, at over 28.16 percent. The board is recommending the addition of five new bus drivers, as there are often shortages due to field trips, sick days, etc. A new full-size bus as well as a handicapped accessible van are also needed.

The board is budgeting for the sale of bonds to complete work on the middle and high schools. Contracts are ready to be signed for the middle school while bids are scheduled to open on April 12 for the high school project. Work on both schools is expected to begin this summer.

The grand total of the proposal is $62,068,484, up 13.06 percent from the current budget. The budget vote will be held on Tuesday, May 15, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the high school gym. Voter registration will take place on Tuesday, May 8 from 4-10 p.m. in the high school cafeteria.