The 2014-15 preliminary budget was approved by the Iola-Scandinavia School Board at its July 14 meeting.
The proposed 2014-15 tax levy is estimated at $4.13 million, with a property tax rate of $10.37 per $1,000 of assessed value.
The preliminary 2014-15 budget will be presented at the district’s annual meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 11.
The board also approved presenting a 10-cent per meal price increase at the annual meeting.
The 10-cent increase for breakfast and lunch is an annual requirement until the I-S School District reaches an equity level between paid and federally funded free and reduced meals.
“We will continue to review meal prices on an annual basis and will consider rate adjustments as necessary to meet state and federal requirements,” said Business Manager Sarah Thiel.
In other business, the board discussed the Krause property purchase.
The Waupaca County Highway Department will begin construction of the new access road in July.
Board members asked how soon work will begin on the expanded parking lot.
“We will get the road built first, then the county will level out the other part, and we will take it from there,” said District Administrator David Dyb.
Athletic code
The board discussed updates to the 2014-15 athletic code and policy.
Most of the discussion focused on grade requirements for athletes. High School Principal Sara Anderson noted that the I-S requirements of maintaining a C average were higher that the WIAA’s, which allows athletes to receive failing grades and still participate in sporting events.
Anderson noted that one failing grade on a progress report could make an I-S athlete ineligible to compete in an event.
One board member said the standard should be more lenient for sports such as track, where there are fewer events.
“It is my belief that there is no reason to fail a class,” Anderson said.
She said teachers remind students when each progress report is due, so there is adequate time for students to improve their grades.
“The staff communicates frequently with students regarding progress report due dates and deadlines, and students are aware in advance of when grades will be checked,” Anderson said.