As the school year closes out, NCOE Unit 3 is winding down one for students, but just ramping up for summer projects. School board members met with principals Wednesday night with no public body present. Among the items discussed, $50,000 of the Booth Trust, Superintendent Matt Vollman reports, has been placed into a CD for 12 months with an interest rate of 3.65%. Vollman also says the district received its tax levy computation back from the county clerk. It underscores the difficulties school districts face when they get cuts in prorations on mandated spending.
Our certified rate for the upcoming property tax season is 2.844% which is the lowest tax rate we’ve ever had. So, good news for taxpayers. With that being said, not good news out of Springfield with education as far as what they call the MCATS or mandated categoricals for next year. Transportation claims this year were prorated at 78%, next year it’s going to be 68%. Special Ed transportation is going to go from a proration of 60% this year to 55% next year. Special Ed tuition is going from 64% to 63% so they are kind of cutting some of their reimbursements on what we call mandated categoricals or things we have to provide.
Vollman also reported that NCOE graduating seniors took home scholarships amounting to $1,420,638.00.
Summer projects about to get underway include a new parking lot. Construction is expected to begin June 1st between the gym and baseball field. It should add about 70 parking spots when complete. The board also signed off on adding handrails in HJ Phelps gymnasium. The cost will be not to exceed $5,850 per aisle. The board voted unanimously to move forward with four.
Following principal reports, the board approved setting the annual FY26 budget amendment which will push back June’s board meeting to June 24th so that the public has a full 30 days to review prior to the board voting on it. Leaders approved the annual Hazardous Traffic Resolution with IDOT due to the proximity of the two major highways. Additionally, they agreed to let bids for bread, bakery, dairy, and cafeteria supplies, and approved school lunch and breakfast agreements with WOVSED and ROE.
The board recessed into executive session at 7:37pm.