Region 14 Budget Talk on 4.9 Percent Increase Wednesday

The Region 14 School District, which includes Woodbury, is hosting an informative Budget Talk at 5 p.m. in Bethlehem Elementary School on Wednesday, May 1. All residents of Bethlehem and Woodbury who would like to learn more about the 2013-14 school budget are invited to attend.

Residents will have a chance to vote May 7 on the proposal, which includes a 4.9 percent increase in spending (almost $1.5 million) over 2012-13.

Region 14 Superintendent Jody Goeler noted that the district has averaged a 1 percent increase annually over the last five academic years and that this year’s proposal was pared down from a 5.13 percent increase after the public hearing.

According to Goeler, the current proposal will allow the district to:

• Adoption of the mandated Common Core initiative, which requires an aligned K-12 curriculum, professional development to train staff, and new standardized testing for all students.
• Development, alignment and implementation of Pre K-12 mandated Common Core State Standards through the addition of a Director of Instruction.
• Expansion of technological infrastructure to allow standardized testing on electronic devices, and the use of smart boards, computers and other devices to enhance instruction.
• Funding for one full-time Social Worker in each school to support the mental health needs of all students.
• School Safety Upgrades, including a School Resource Officer at each school, updated security systems, and communication enhancements between buildings and to first responders.
• Repair and maintenance, including continued asbestos abatement at MES, roof repair at WMS, and boiler repair at NHS.
• Consultation to manage Special Education expenses while enhancing services to students.