G-R Happenings
6-4-12
As you are likely aware the G-R Schools recently released
for summer break. I would like to
thank the Board of Education, Parents, Students, Patrons, and Staff for a
fantastic year in 11-12.
Perhaps the most notable success was the implementation of
1:1 computing at the high school.
Our technology directors, Mr. Bixby and Mr. Lundgren, put in a lot of
time last summer getting the computers and our network up to speed in order to
have the system work this year.
Based on reports from students and teachers, their hard work paid
off. Mr. Leeman and the teachers
did an excellent job of preparing the students for this change in their
educational experience. I’m
excited as the possibilities having this technology afford us the ability to
continually improve G-R students’ educational experiences.
There were many other highlights throughout the year at all
levels of the G-R Schools. Please
take some time over the summer to visit with your students about their personal
highlights of the school year.
G-R will enjoy adding several new faces to the staff in the
12-13 school year. Mrs. Val Ehlers
will be taking over the role of K-12 Library/Media Specialist. Mr. Brady Swenson and Miss Sara Jansen
will be teaching 7th and 8th graders. And Mr. Brian Williams will be
Gladbrook Campus Principal/District Curriculum Director. I am excited by the skills and energy
each of these people bring to G-R.
Please help us welcome them to G-R as you meet them throughout this next
year.
School finances are always a hot-topic at the State
Legislature and this year was no different. In the end the legislators decided to break Iowa law and not
set an allowable growth amount for schools in fiscal year 2014. This lack of action makes it more
difficult for Iowa schools to plan into the future. The good news is that G-R is sitting in a strong financial
position and should be able to handle whatever the future holds. The unspent balance is projected to
hold relatively steady at the end of fiscal year 12, right about $1.3
million. As we look at projected
enrollment and anticipated allowable growth we anticipate that balance
stabilizing at around $500,000+ over the next several years. This level of financial stability helps
us to focus on improving the educational opportunities for the students of G-R.
Gladbrook-Reinbeck Schools currently have a tax levy, known
as the Voted Physical Plant and Equipment Levy. This levy has been used to pay for the addition of the new
commons area at the high school.
The current levy expires at the end of FY 14. The Board is planning to ask for an extension to this levy,
$.67/1000, through a vote in September 2012. Approval of the levy will not increase taxes, but will
maintain the district’s current level of funding.
An extension to the levy will ensure that the district has
funds to continue making needed improvements to buildings, provide technology
to our students, and maintain our facilities. Proposed projects will focus on improved energy efficiency
and improved aesthetics in our facilities, as well as technology for student
use. Plan to see more detailed
articles in the future on this topic.
Again, thanks to all for making 2011-2012 school year a
successful one for the students of G-R.
I wish all a fun and relaxing summer break and look forward to another
great school year starting August 15.
If you have any questions or comments regarding the school please
contact me at 319-345-2712, or tim.kuehl@gr-rebels.net.
Sincerely,
Tim Kuehl
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