RIVERSIDE

The Highland Community Schools property tax levy rate for Fiscal Year 2024 is proposed for 13.00308, which is about one cent lower than this year’s rate.

Ken Crawford, Schools Superintendent, said during Monday’s regularly scheduled meeting of the Highland School Board that the district is attempting to be responsible with its spending and not raise taxes.

A public hearing was set for 5 p.m. April 10, when the levy rate and proposed budget is presented.

School budgets and levy rates must be set by April 30, per state code.

Property taxes are proposed to raise $4.3 million with another $3.5 million coming from state funds and $135,925 in utility replacement money..

A levy rate of 13 means that each $1,000 of property carries a $13 schools tax.

Total expenditures for the current fiscal year, ending June 30, are targeted for $11.293 million.

2023-24 Calendar

The Board approved the school calendar for the 2023-24 school year.

The first day of classes will be Wednesday, Aug. 23, following two days of teacher in-service days.

The district will have four quarters of classes, finishing with the last day of school on Friday, May 24, 2024.

Winter break is scheduled for Dec. 22, 2023, through Jan. 2, 2024. Spring break is March 14 and 15, 2024.

Board Action

The Board approved an operational sharing agreement with WACO for the 2023-24 school year.

The Board approved the purchase of a 12-passenger van from Charles Capper Auto Center of Marengo for $31,375, including trade-ins. The van will be used for athletic teams and other school activity transportation needs.

The Board approved a resolution authorizing the redemption of General Obligation School Bonds and a second amendment to an escrow agent agreement.

The Board approved a number of district policies.

Next board meeting: The board will hold its next monthly meeting at 5 p.m. April  10. A work session is scheduled for March 27 at 5 p.m.