U.S.D. #223 Update
December 26, 2007
For the past few weeks there has been some information published about some financial and enrollment concerns for our district and district #108. The words merger and consolidation were used in the articles and I would like to take time to clarify a few items from the articles.
First of all, the small schools of Kansas (and in particular those along the Highway 36 corridor) will continually have concerns about declining enrollment. Statistics are showing a sharp decline in population overall and in student population as well. When the budget is driven by headcount, then obviously concerns arise about the steady decline in our student populations. From this perspective, it makes sense to keep the lines of communication open to continually strive to improve the educational system for our children.
Secondly, this subject was initially brought up with the idea of saving taxpayers money. District #108 has been through this process recently and had firsthand knowledge of how it might affect the mill rate for district taxpayers. The initial information was that our district patrons would see a decrease in their tax levy of a little over nine mills. This would occur only if we merged the two districts in the next 18 months and it would be for a three year period. After that three year period, the new district would either need to increase the taxes or have some form of change in its structure. Because of the state school finance laws, this benefit would be lost if not done in the next 18 months.
The feeling, from both superintendents, was that this information needed to get out to those that could see a savings, even if for just a three year period. The information was originally shared with the Boards of each district and then, through the press, some basic information was released. It is important for landowners to understand the information and to notify your board members if you want us to continue this discussion.
The obvious concern has been the idea of losing our schools. Although this has not been discussed, it is a valid concern. From past knowledge of the #108 consolidation, it is fresh on peoples’ minds and must be considered if you wish us to continue in this process. Another item of major concern voiced at our last Board meeting was the loss of local control. If we were to merge, the concept is that we would lose numbers on the board and therefore not have control of our own school’s destiny. Again, this is a definite concern and must be weighed heavily if we are to continue.
The good old days of having 30 to 40 students in a class are long gone and we are now becoming happy when we have over 20. Although the numbers are more discouraging at Linn, we are still seeing a decrease on both sides of the district and we are a district. We must continue our local discussions within our own district while keeping our minds and doors open to what the future might hold for our students. Please do not hesitate to contact me or a board member with your thoughts on this subject. We will welcome your ideas and hope to continue to provide all of our students with the education needed to succeed in our global world.
Superintendent
Steve Joonas
