UCS Board of Education passes balanced budget, maintains existing student programs and services

The Utica Community Schools Board of Education approved a $274.7 million budget that will maintain existing educational programs and services.

The balanced budget was approved 7-0 at the Board’s June 9 meeting.
 
“The 2014-2015 budget will provide stability for our staff, students and families through the continuation of current programs,” Superintendent Dr. Christine Johns said.  

In addition, the budget supports a number of key academic initiatives developed to improve student achievement.

At the preschool and early elementary level, the budget supports increased opportunities for participation in a Great Start Preschool Readiness program, implementation of Science “Techbooks” for all K-2 students, introduction of an elementary reading series in grades 3-6, and the continuation of a personalized, Blended Learning Model in kindergarten and first grade and its implementation in second grade.

At the secondary level, the district is expanding its partnership with the University of Michigan-Flint to offer courses in a new medical sciences pathway and introducing a new junior high Exploring Design and Engineering II course.

The 2014-2015 balanced budget reflects the minimal foundation allowance increase of $50 established by state lawmakers and a continued strategic use of the district’s fund equity.

“Like all Michigan families, Utica Community Schools has had to make some very difficult decisions to address its economic realities,” Board of Education President Dr. Carol Klenow said.  “These difficult decisions allow us to be in the current position of adopting a fiscal budget that is focused on maintaining a high level of educational opportunities for our students.”

You can view the budget at this link.