Summary

The Spring Hill School District Board of Education held a session on September 9, 2024, covering various topics, from the district’s budget hearing for the 2024-2025 fiscal year to updates on the district's summer technology projects. Key discussions included the implementation of a therapy dog program at Woodland Spring Middle School and the recommendation of a construction manager firm. The board also approved several resolutions related to the revenue-neutral rate and the fiscal year 2025 budget.

Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing

Doug Schwinn, Director of Business, presented the revenue-neutral rate process, including the impact of new state statutes and the district’s proposed tax rate for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The presentation included key information on the district’s need to exceed the revenue-neutral rate due to its rapid growth and the consequences of remaining revenue-neutral. The public was also invited to speak and ask questions.

2024-25 Budget Hearing

Following the revenue-neutral rate hearing, the board held a hearing on the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2024-2025. Schwinn provided detailed information on the district's growth, projected enrollment, and the budget's allocation toward staffing, utilities, and debt service. The proposed budget would increase overall spending to accommodate the district's expanding student population and the necessary staff to maintain reasonable classroom sizes. The public was also invited to speak and ask questions.

Presentation on Therapy Dog Program at Woodland Spring Middle School

The board was presented with a new initiative to introduce a therapy dog program at Woodland Spring Middle School. The therapy dog, June, a mini golden doodle, will provide emotional support for students. The program will be implemented under strict guidelines, including parent opt-out options and a focus on using the dog in a non-disruptive way.

Technology Department Update on Summer Projects

Phil Elliott, Director of Technology, provided an update on the district’s technology projects completed during the summer of 2024. These projects included a $1 million Cisco upgrade, wireless access point replacements, server and storage updates, and improvements in iPad maintenance. The board acknowledged the technology team's hard work in completing these upgrades and preparing the district for the 2024-2025 school year.

Recommendation of Construction Manager Firm

Tim Meek, Director of Construction and Safety, recommended to the board that a construction management firm be selected for upcoming district projects. Following interviews with multiple firms, the board recommended Newkirk Novak for its cost-effective proposal and strong relationship with the district. The recommendation was based on quality and pricing comparisons.

Agenda Adjustments

A scheduled discussion on student cell phone use policy was moved from the September 23 meeting to the October 7 televised meeting.

Action Items:

Approval of Resolution 25.07

The Board approved the resolution to exceed the revenue-neutral rate for the fiscal year 2024-2025.

Approval of Resolution 25.08

The Board approved adopting a local option budget percentage above 32%.

Approval of Fiscal Year 2025 Budget  

The Board approved the fiscal year 2025 budget as presented during the hearing.