Board approves 2011-12 budget

The 2011-12 budget projects $98,635,862 in revenues and $98,054,981 in expenditures, a less than one-percent increase from last year's budget. Based on the final budget for 2011-12, the District forecasts an Operating Fund balance of $64.7 million as of June 30, 2012.  This represents an operating reserve of 63.2%. The current Board-established policy requires a minimum of 33% in fund balance reserves.

"Strong fund balances help school districts remain stable when faced with uncertainties such as state and federal funding, said Board Vice President Bob Boron. "District 225 has projected that student enrollments, particularly at GBS, will grow significantly in the next two to four years, making the fund balance even more important in accommodating the needs of a larger population."

Given the uncertainty of economic affairs in Illinois, the District has built this budget on the assumption that there will be a severe reduction, and possible elimination, in state funding. This strategy decreases the District's reliance on state funds. The majority (95%) of the District budget is funded locally, primarily through property taxes with less than 5% of funding provided by state and federal sources (compared to the average Illinois school district which receives approximately 38% from the state and another 9% from federal sources). This structure gives District 225 taxpayers greater control over the quality and value of their schools.  It also ensures a favorable credit rating for the District and protects the schools from severe fluctuations in revenues, which could result in the elimination of programs.

"We are in a strong financial position for numerous reasons including a supportive community which believes in maintaining a high quality public education," said Superintendent Dr. Mike Riggle. 

The district has continued to proactively reduce expenses through targeted efficiencies in the areas of personnel, supplies, transportation and services. In addition, the district continues to identify areas for cost containment, and is currently exploring opportunities to partner with municipalities and other school districts on major and/or recurring bids and services.

The 2011-12 budget is available online.

Administrative compensation report available online

As of October 1, the administrative compensation report for 2011-12 will be available online.

GBN and GBS receive new catwalk safety harnesses

The Board voted to approve the purchase of a new fall arrest system for each school's theater catwalk area.  The cost of the GBN system is $14,500 and for GBS it is $5,800.  This measure is expected to further increase school safety and maintains Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliance.