Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, May 4, 1995 TAG: 9505040071
SECTION: NEIGHBORS PAGE: W-3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: STEWART MacINNIS SPECIAL TO THE ROANOKE TIMES & WORLD NEWS
DATELINE: NEW CASTLE LENGTH: Medium
The school board's action followed Monday's board of supervisors meeting where supervisors offered school officials a grim picture of county finances.
"This reduces the budget back to the state-mandated minimum," said Chairman James Cady. "The [supervisors] have a tremendous shortage they're dealing with this year. I'm glad I'm sitting here and not in their seats."
The supervisors are trying to minimize an expected increase in the county's real estate tax by reducing the proposed budgets of all county departments.
Superintendent Dallas Helems said the $19,000 reduction can be accommodated, but reminded the board that this year's contribution also was the minimum.
In another matter, the board heard that recently received standardized test scores showed students in Craig County continue to do well and had increases noted in nearly every category.
Cady noted the scores showed an increase in math scores, which the board wanted.
"We asked you to overhaul your system," Cady said of the effort to improve scores. When students score consistently in the 60 and 70 percentiles, he added, "well, I can't find fault with people who are producing. This faculty from top to bottom has done a great job."
Board Member Helen Abbott Looney thanking teachers for their efforts, said, "You've done a great, great job. I couldn't have said that four years ago."
In another matter, the board approved the calendar for the next school year. The first day of school is Aug. 28, and the last day is June 4, 1996. Thanksgiving vacation is Nov. 23-24; Christmas vacation is Dec. 22 to Jan. 1, 1996; and spring break is April 1-5, 1996.
by CNB