58° and Patchy rain nearby
(Following is a meeting summary from the Niagara Falls School Board .)
Superintendent Mark Laurrie and District Accountant Richard Schwertfager presented the District’s Special Aide Budget. This budget includes 36 current federal, state, and local grants totaling $37,616,646 and funds 251.28 full time equivalent positions.
Superintendent Laurrie, District Treasurer Julie Jacklin, and School Business Administrator Rebecca Holody presented the 2024-2025 general fund budget which has not changed in the last two weeks. This budget was created despite not having a New York State budget in place. This proposed budget features no reductions in full time equivalent staff or cuts to current programs. The budget, which is recommended, is $190,992,049 and utilizes $7,200,000 in reserve funds. There will be no increase to the tax levy. This budget must be approved by 60% of the voters.
A public meeting was held on the District’s expenditures of American Rescue Funds (ARP). The District’s original plan was presented to the public on June 24, 2021. The spending accounted for academic and social emotional programs and staff for students. It also improved the air quality in many schools.
The Board of Education formally voted to approve the 2024-2025 budget of $190,992,049 and resolved to accept and approve the property tax report card with no increase to the tax levy.
The Superintendent reported that between 10-13 students regularly attend community schools with two students on track to graduate. He also noted that the return to school after spring break has been very calm and productive at all levels.
The official Niagara Falls High School graduation rate has been reported at 85%. A celebration in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King was held on April 16, 2024, recognizing community leaders Samika Sullivan, Eddie Bryant, Nasreen Akhtar, and NFHS student, Madison Simpson.
The Niagara Falls High School Marching Band took 1st place in the Buffalo St. Patrick’s Day parade!
The Marketing class at NFHS is designing frozen food displays at Tops on Portage Road.
Next Board Meeting: Thursday, April 25, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.
