District determines tentative last day for 2013-14 school year

After considering available options for making up four days lost to inclement weather in January, the district administration has determined the tentative end-of-year calendar to be as follows:

• Monday, March 31, is an attendance day for all students.

• Graduation dates for both schools will remain on Sunday, June 1, as scheduled. The last day of school for seniors is Friday, May 30, as scheduled.

• The tentative last day of school for students in grades 9, 10 and 11 is Friday, June 6.

• Summer school will tentatively start on Friday, June 13, and the first summer session will end on Wednesday, July 2. The second session of summer school will tentatively begin on Monday, July 7 and end on Friday, July 25.

Administration recommends freezing student transportation fee

The district administration recommended freezing student transportation fees and continuing with the 50 percent sibling rider discount. 

In light of ongoing economic conditions and a negotiated long-term contract with First Student, the Board has not increased the student transportation fee over the past six years. 

Cost of student transportation is:

• $675 if registered between April 1-June 6
• $800 if registered after June 6

The official registration period runs from April 1-June 6. After June 6, seats will be offered on a space available basis and based on existing stops and routes. A 50 percent discount will be available for sibling riders, and a $25 discount for those who register online. 

The Board will vote on the transportation fees and will review all other student fees at the February 10 meeting.

District highlights student food options

District administration provided the Board of Education with a brief overview of the food services program.

On an average attendance day, 3,736 (79-percent of population) students purchase food from the school cafeterias. Students enjoy a wide variety of food choices, with many healthy and fresh alternatives. Beverages account for 25-percent of sales, with the most popular choices being coffee/hot chocolate, bottled water, and Gatorade.

The district has a long-term relationship with its current food provider Quest Food Services, a vendor since 2007. After a commitment in 1992 to reduce a large program deficit, the district reported a $657,000 fund balance for the 2013-14 school year that is targeted for repair and replacement of cafeteria equipment over time.

"Quest has been a beneficial partner for our district, not only helping to contain our costs but also improving the quality of foods, the selection, and the management of this important service to our students and staff," said Ptak.