District spending projected to increase

By Jennifer LeNoble

The New London School Board approved a 2015-16 budget that projects a decrease in the tax levy by 1.7 percent and an increase in district spending by 1.7 percent.

The board approved the $30.77 million budget during its regular scheduled board meeting, Monday, Sept. 14, after Director of Business Services Joseph Marquardt presented the annual budget hearing.

“The goal of our budget is to create the best opportunities and resources for our students in a fiscally responsible manner,” Marquardt said. “I believe our budget reflects our district’s mission statement, success for all students.”

The budget calls for a $206,271 estimated increase in state aid and 1.7 percent decrease in property taxes. The levy is projected to decrease because equalization aid is projected to decrease by 1.3 percent.

According to Marquardt, the final levy and spending totals can change between now and the levy certification date on Oct. 26.

In addition, the budget includes a 1.6 percent wage increase for support staff, a 1.5 percent wage increase for certified staff, and a 0.8 percent wage increase for administration.

Neely recognized
School Board member Connie Neely received recognition by CESA 6 for her efforts in leadership and service.

CESA stands for Cooperative Educational Service Agency. CESA 6 makes it possible for schools to work together to share staff, save money and extend educational opportunities to all areas of its region and to all children.

CESA 6 is one of 12 regional service agencies created by the Wisconsin Legislature, and are designed to serve educational needs across the state of Wisconsin.

Neely has served on the CESA 6 Board of Control since 2012. The board consists of 11 members, each member representing a different school district.

CESA 6 Executive Director of Business Services, Dave Van Spankeren, presented Neely with a plaque for her services and contributions to the board.

“I’m truly honored to be here in New London to award this plaque to Connie,” Van Spankeren said. “Everyone at CESA 6 appreciates your leadership for the past three years.”

Neely accepted the plaque and expressed her thanks. Fellow board members also congratulated Neely for her services to CESA 6 as well as to the New London School Board.