Dr. Susan Legutko, Assistant Superintendent, thanked the Business Affairs staff for their help in putting this year's budget together.  She reviewed a history of the millages and assessed value in Clay County.  The school district advertised a decrease in the school tax levy.  The 2016-2017 millage levies will generate $68,028,156.

Dr. Legutko briefly reviewed all funds of the 2016-2017 proposed budget which totals $379,643,490.  See attached PowerPoint for details.  The district's projected fund balance for June 30, 2017 is 3.96%. 

John Merrill, Assistant Superintendent for Support Services, stated there were no major changes to the Educational Facilities Plan presentation he made in July.  He spent time highlighting Page 9 and an additional slide (attached) which reflects more accurate student capacity figures now that school has started.  

Chairman McKinnon opened the public hearing.  When no one came forward to speak, the public hearing was closed.  

The Florida Best and Brightest Teacher Scholarship Program is administered by the Department of Education and provides categorical funding for scholarships to be awarded to classroom teachers.  The FDOE is deferring to districts to determine individually how to interpret "classroom teacher."  The purpose of this item is to clarify the definition of "classroom teachers" so there is no misunderstanding of who will be eligible to apply for this scholarship.  In preparing for this agenda item, the Human Resources Division thoroughly researched this topic through inquiry and input from other school districts as well as clarification from two of our local legislators, and offered to the Board the recommendation specified in the motion below.  

Superintendent Van Zant thanked Dr. Legutko and Mr. Merrill, as well as their staff, for all their hard work in preparing the 2016-2017 budget and Educational Facilities Plan.    

Board members echoed the Superintendent's thanks to staff for their preparation  of the 2016-2017 budget and EFP.  

Mrs. Condon asked for clarification of the date for the November organization meeting since this year it falls two days before the Thanksgiving holiday. Staff will confirm with the state and confirm the date.  

Mrs. McKinnon stated that she and Mr. Merrill had met with the mom of an OLJ student that was recently hit by a car.  Staff will continue to work with the CCSO to monitor the walk paths and the need for additional crossing guards.