(Elk Horn, IA) – Members of the Exira-EHK School Board met Monday evening (April 13th). Superintendent Trevor Miller provided us with highlights of the evening’s agenda action items:
Discussion Items:
- A public hearing was held for the FY27 published budget. Discussion included the income surtax, reductions in facilities acquisition and construction, and the final property tax rate of 11.12898.
- Ms. Van Cleave provided an update on the DCAP plan. The team has put in a significant amount of time and effort. I encourage anyone interested to reach out to her directly for a more detailed overview.
- Nutrition Fund Update: Due to a decrease in the nutrition fund balance, we are reviewing staffing, cost reductions, commodities, and additional à la carte options that align with nutrition guidelines.
Action Items Approved:
- FY27 Budget approval following the public hearing.
- Resolution authorizing the redemption of General Obligation School Bonds, including the prepayment of $145,000 toward the 2018 bond. This is part of our ongoing effort to reduce interest and principal costs for the district.
- Approval of the Class of 2026, contingent upon all graduation requirements being met.
- Approval to join the natural gas consortium, allowing expenses to be paid from the management fund as purchased services, helping preserve General Fund resources.
- Approval of the Non-Traditional Handbook. This initiative creates an alternative pathway for students to help retain and support them at Exira-EHK. More information, including the application process, will be shared with staff during professional development and posted on the website.
- First and second readings of board policies (Items 6–10) were approved following discussion and clarification.
Personnel:
- Hires: Shay Burmeister – Assistant Softball Coach
- Resignations:
- Drew Buckholdt – Paraeducator and Coach
- Vitoria Asmus – Elementary Art/Music
- Julie Parker – Shared ELL/TAG (with CRB)
