Bottom line

The board will have a budget study session from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. It will set the stage for development of a budget for the 2004-2005 school year.

Board members will be briefed on Gov. Kathleen Sebelius’ education budget recommendations to the 2004 Legislature. A list of $2.7 million in budget enhancements proposed by district staff also will be outlined.

Background

Supt. Randy Weseman said the board might address areas that could be targeted for cuts. A contingency plan identifying $1.5 million in reductions may be developed.

Another element in the budget debate will be a proposed half-cent increase in Douglas County’s sales tax. If approved by voters, new sales tax money would be earmarked for public schools serving the county.

Other business

• Conduct a budget study session 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Convene an executive session at 6:30 p.m. to discuss personnel matters and teacher contract negotiations.
• Start the regular portion of the board meeting at 7 p.m.
• Receive comments from board members and Supt. Randy Weseman.
• Consider giving final approval of a three-year, $2 million grant application to the Kansas State Department of Education to start a “virtual” charter school.
• Consider approval of a $38,000 contract with Tallgrass Studios, Lecompton, to promote objectives of the district’s Safe Schools/Healthy Students program.
• Consider buying two riding mowers from Deems Farm Equipment, Lawrence, for $23,078. The mowers would replace two 10-year-old tractors.
• Consider on first reading policies related to curriculum development, instructional program development and review, educational programs, curriculum enhancement programs and planning for instruction.