Superintendent Blankenship and Board President Rick Fitzwater review 2004-05 budget
Calhoun Superintendent of Schools Ron Blankenship was given a one year
contract to continue in the position at last night's Board of Education meeting.
He will keep the same salary of $81,000.
"I have wrestled with the issue of retirement," said Blankenship, "but if it is your
desire I will stay one more year." He said he had no thoughts of asking for a pay
increase, considering the county school budget is being cut.
The board unanimously agreed on his re-appointment.
Blankenship said he regretted rumors had spread in the community about a pay
raise, indicating such a raise had never been considered or discussed.
The board approved the 2004-05 budget, which has been published and available
for public comment.
Blankenship and board members discussed budget issues at considerable
length, after administrator Connie Roberts said this year's budget is $385,000
less than last year.
The cuts have been made because fewer students are attending county schools.
Funding is capitated by the state's school funding formula.
"There is now a real need for an excess levy to keep the system at the current
level," said Blankenship, with some board members expressing reseverations
about the public voting for such a levy.
He predicted some difficult times ahead.
Cuts will have to be made next year, and where to cut is a critical issue. One of
the few places to cut is supplemental salaries, which would directly affect all
sports programs. The system is mandated to provide courses of study at levels
set by No Child Left Behind and other criteria.
"We have used our funds with tremendous effectiveness" said Roberts,
"considering we do not have an excess levy."
The board listened to a presentation by Ox Johnson (left) for the
construction of a new building at the athletic field to be known as the Wayne
Underwood Hall of Fame and Museum. The multi-level building would be
constructed beside the current press box, similar in construction, said Johnson.
(Story To Follow).
The board gave the project their unamious support.
The board conducted other routine business. (Story To Follow)
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