School Board hears details about upcoming levy

DAYTON–School Directors have until mid-November to act to place a replacement levy on the February, 2020, ballot, and detailed information about the possible Enrichment Levy and Capital Projects Levy were presented by Superintendent Doug Johnson at the Board’s September 18 meeting.

In spite of changes to the levy’s name and other restrictions, the amount to be collected is believed to be equal to the amount currently being collected, Supt. Johnson said. “The numbers are still being estimated,” Johnson said, “but will likely range between the current amount of about $1.25 [per $1,000 of assessed valuation] to somewhere near $1.40.”

Among the options that Johnson may recommend to School Directors to replace the expiring four-year Maintenance and Operations Levy would be an “Enrichment Levy,” which would pay for items outside of Basic Education calculations done by the state. Expenses, for example, might include staffing beyond state allocation, student activities, food services, supplies and curriculum, Johnson informed the Board.

Also due for replacement would be a Capital Levy for Technology, which Johnson said would be used to keep current annual software licenses, spam and safety filters, maintenance and repairs. Combined with this request would be additional Capital Levy funds to begin the process of updating the electrical system in Dayton Elementary with an eventual goal of installing air conditioning and ventilation “to improve the learning environment for students,” Johnson said.

“Approval of this levy will allow the District to continue to keep work stations current and have the appropriate infrastructure to support work stations for students and staff,” Johnson said.

The formula devised by the State Legislature as a fix to the “McCleary Decision” requires school districts to base the budget on an enrollment estimate. The amount collected and the rate per $1,000 of assessed valuation would vary each year. If the requested amount total is more than the actual prior-year enrollment, the county auditor would roll back the collection amount therefore reducing the taxes to reflect only the amount necessary for the number of students enrolled, Johnson said.

“Although there are some changes, the public should expect the tax rate and collection totals to be equal to or less than the current amounts approved four years ago in 2016,” he said.

Johnson also advised Directors that an urgent repair grant has been submitted to OSPI, and, if selected, the District will replace the current roof/awning that covers a portion of the elementary asphalt playground. Should the grant be denied, the Board may need to discuss further on how to fund a replacement and provide a safe playing surface for students free of leaking water and icy spots during inclement weather.

Because the multi-purpose room is also the cafeteria there is no other protected play area for elementary students available for lunch recess.

In regard to immunizations, legislation has changed the laws used to guide school districts in the area of immunizations and infectious diseases. Some exemptions opportunities were eliminated, others modified. The legislation is an attempt to act on an unwanted return of the measles to public school children. Personal and philosophical exemptions are no longer accepted for MMR vaccinations. Religious exemptions are still possible. Both employees and children who are not vaccinated and cannot provide proof of immunity will be prevented from attending school or working during the time a breakout of the diseases are occurring at school.

A Social Media Policy was discussed regarding some of the policy language and employees use of social media both in and out of school. A recent incident demonstrated that perhaps the District and the teachers union need to work together to ensure both employees and the District are protected from social media issues. A policy will be discussed with the teacher’s union in October with potential action later this fall by the district.

The overall enrollment is above the budgeted figure used to determine revenue by the state. It is also slightly above the ending figure from 2018-2019. This is a great start and the District hopes to maintain the current number of 388 or see a slight increase.

Business Manager Paula Moisio reported the new budget year has just begun so there is not much to report at this time. With changes made to spending implemented last spring and carried into the summer, the District was able to finish the 2018-2019 fiscal year with a higher fund balance than anticipated.

The cash balance will help continue to provide educational services.

At the DW combine meeting earlier in the week Moisio reported on the final numbers for the combine. She indicated the total expenditures for each district was indeed lower than when each district ran their own program.

Secondary Principal Kristina Brown reported the staff is reviewing the new discipline laws, the Math Intervention classes have been arranged for grades 6-7-8 and the teachers are now working in Professional Learning Communities.

Johnson, who is filling the position of Elementary Principal, reported the Title and LAP intervention groups will soon begin, the i-ready diagnostic assessments have been completed and he is working with the Elementary staff to reduce the impact of a part time principal.

Kira Boggs, High School ASB president, brought the Board up to date on the current ASB activities. The High School ASB leaders will be attending a leadership workshop Sept. 30. The Homecoming activities include some new events this year with a combined HC dance with Waitsburg. They have hosted an assembly including a Dress Code “Fashion Show” and are looking to purchase a new Bulldog Mascot.

Director Fred White and Bob Hutchens, representing the Hospital Board, sent a letter to US Trust/US Bank who is the trustee for the Day Estate.

Guests attending the board meeting were Dawn McGhan and Jeremy Trump.

Trump raised concerns with the use of public transit for student athletes. His concerns were:

-coaches where not riding the bus back and forth

-the public was also riding the bus and the school had no control over this

-District liability if there is a student problem, like a fight.

Other concerns expressed by Trump were confusion over the mascot and name of the teams, and that, under new WIAA classification, Dayton, if not in the combine, would be 1B. This classification would likely mean not having to travel to Kittitas, White Swan and other schools of greater distances. Trump said he hopes the Board will consider input from parents regarding the combine program.