(KNSI) — The District 742 School Board looked at the preliminary 2023-2024 budget Wednesday night, showing the general fund is in relatively good shape and has a surplus in the coffers.
Executive Director of Finance and Business Services Amy Skaalerud presented the preliminary budget at a regularly scheduled work session Wednesday evening. According to a press release, the district is projecting an ending unrestricted fund balance in the general fund of $17.9 million, which represents approximately 11.3% of general fund expenditures, above the minimum fund balance set by Board policy.
The general fund, which accounts for all of the instructional operating costs for the district, is budgeted at a surplus of $44,475.
In a video-recorded statement to families and staff, Superintendent Dr. Laurie Putnam announced the district’s fiscal priorities for the upcoming school year, saying they aim for lower class sizes, maintaining mental health supports, safe schools, and additional staff and support for special education.
At the start of the recent school year, Dr. Putnam started hosting Coffee and Conversations because “Communication is a two way street. I want to be able to listen. I don’t want to just be the only person out talking because I don’t have all the answers. I have a direction. I have a vision and I want to hear from families and from staff and from community members because a public school is about its community.”
She thanked everyone who provided input and collaboration through surveys, listening sessions and committee participation.
“We believe that these investments in our students and staff will help us continue to provide the high-quality education that our community expects and deserves,” Putnam said.
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