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Atlantic School Board discusses budget during work session

News

February 26th, 2013 by Ric Hanson

Despite the uncertainties over how much school districts in Iowa will receive from the legislature with regard to allowable growth, the Atlantic School Board Monday night continued discussion on how their budget is shaping up. Superintendent Dr. Michael Amstein said the Board is proceeding as though there will be zero percent allowable growth, but he’s still hoping for around two-to three-percent. The Iowa House has passed a two-percent allowable growth, while the Senate has approved four-percent. Amstein says he’s hoping for a “Happy medium,” and the district will receive a set allowable growth soon, which will help with the budget process.

The Iowa Legislature has been setting the statewide allowable growth rate since 1993. Before that the rate was automatically determined by a formula which examined enrollment figures, state revenue growth, inflation and economic indicators. The monies received typically are used to fund teacher salaries and benefits.

The Atlantic School Board also discussed possible Capital Improvement Projects to expand the instructional space at each of the district’s facilities. Included in the discussion, was the possibility of: Adding a new cafeteria and additional classrooms at the Washington School; a new cafeteria and commons area in the Middle School in an area between the gym and auditorium; seven new classrooms at the high school; and 11 more classrooms at Schuler Elementary. Amstein cited an increased enrollment of students in the lower grades and the district’s shrinking capacity to house all those students as they move through the grades, as the reason why expansion projects are being discussed. No action was taken during the work session however, with regard to the budget or the possible capital improvement projects.