The Iola-Scandinavia School District’s zero-based budget approach will include the athletic department.
Implementation of a zero-based budget approach for the athletic department was discussed at the April 13 meeting of the I-S School Board.
According to the administration and the board, this zero-based approach is also being used for 2015-16 instructional budgets.
All varsity and junior varsity athletic programs will begin with a $1,000 budget for supplies and items needed throughout each athletic season. Middle school athletic programs will have budgets of $1,200.
The district will budget separately for such items as coaching costs, event workers and meet/registration fees, and these costs will not be included as part of the initial $1,000 budgets.
Understanding that some programs may have varying costs and that increased expenses may occur from year to year, additional funds will be available by request through the athletic director and administrative team for review and approval.
“We realize some programs cost more, but this will help us look at what is really needed to run each program,” Dyb said. “We need to be just as fiscally responsible with our athletic programs as we are in the classroom.”
The board briefly discussed the formation of a Capital Improvement Fund (Fund 46).
In order to establish this fund, the district must have a board approved capital improvement plan (minimum of 10 years) that is funded with a transfer from the general fund.
The district may not access Fund 46 funds for a period of five years after the fund is created. After the five-year period, funds may only be used for purposes identified in the capital improvement plan.
“This is a great opportunity to designate funds specifically for capital improvement projects,” said Business Manager Sarah Thiel.
More information will be presented for board review and approval on or before the regular meeting in June.
The Building and Grounds Committee is ready to make recommendations on future development on the newly acquired Krause property.
According to Chair Jeffrey Oppor, a group of community members offered to finance the construction of tennis courts on the property.
With the availability of a new access road, Dyb said the administrative team needs to develop a traffic flow plan for the high school parking lot.
The committee will meet to discuss options at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 29, in the maintenance building.
Going paperless
A demonstration on paperless board meetings was presented by Jessica Gross, CESA 5 Google certified trainer.
“Instead of working on a piece of paper, you will be working on a device,” she said.
According to Gross, everything will be linked through an active agenda. The board members may gain access through Google Drive or on the school’s website.
“Whatever you want to do, we can make it happen,” Gross said. “If it’s not working, we will adjust it for you.”
The board will receive more instruction and orientation on the paperless process at its June 8 meeting.
The board approved using its Board Development Fund to purchase Chromebooks for each member. The estimated cost is $250 each.