G-R Happenings 6-28-12

 

G-R HAPPENINGS

Physical Plant and Equipment Levy:

In my last article I reported that the G-R Board of Education had approved an election to extend our current $0.67 Voted Physical Plant and Equipment Levy, VPPEL.  The current VPPEL runs through FY 2014.  The vast majority of the revenue from the current VPPEL is used to pay off the note on the high school addition, that includes the high school commons area.

Plans for the VPPEL, if approved, include several projects geared toward improving efficiency and appearance of our facilities, as well as increasing the available technology to our students. 

Likely projects include:

• Middle School 1:1 Initiative
• K-12 technology purchases
• Fluorescent lights in Gladbrook lunchroom
• Water softener systems
• Replacing windows with high efficiency models
• HVAC upgrades, primarily controls
• Remodeling the old gym and locker rooms at the high school
• Updating ceiling tiles in all buildings
• Remodeling the soccer restrooms
• Update restrooms in buildings
• Repair and replacement of concrete in parking areas
• Resurfacing playground areas
• Roof maintenance
• Bus Barn at the Gladbrook Campus
• Asbestos abatement

As you can see, there is plenty to do with the approximately $130,000/year generated by the $0.67/1000 VPPEL. 

What impact would approving the VPPEL have on property taxes?  Approval of the VPPEL would maintain taxes for the school at their current level.  In FY 2013 that number is $11.13172/$1000.  The taxes in the G-R district are among the lower rates in the State. 

Tax Rates at G-R:

FY 09 - $11.63

FY 10 - $12.11

FY 11 - $13.59

FY 12 - $12.14

FY 13 - $11.13

With valuations on the rise and enrollment, hopefully, stabilizing, tax rates should be steady at the current rate, to slightly declining over the next several years. 

If you have questions, concerns, or suggestions regarding the VPPEL vote on September 11, 2012, please contact me, tim.kuehl@gr-rebels, 319-345-2712 so that we can discuss your thoughts. 

2012-2013 School Year Information:

With the summer break nearly half over it is time to start thinking about the 2012-2013 school year.  Registration packets will be mailed to families the week of July 16.  Forms and information will be available on the district website: http://www.g-r.k12.ia.us/, click under “Rebel News”.  PaySchools will be available for online payment the week of July 23^rd.  The first day for students to start class will be on August 15.  Orientation for third grade will be on August 13^th, with orientation for fifth and ninth grades on August 14^th.  The 1:1 rollout for all high school students and parents will be on August 14^th.  Open House for all parents, except third grade, will be on August 14^th.

I hope you are having an enjoyable summer and are able to spend some fun time with your Rebels.

Sincerely,

Tim Kuehl, Superintendent.