The Highland School Board met in regular session on Monday, April 10.

As part of a regular function of the board, the budget for the 2023/24 school year was approved. Despite changes in revenues and expenses due to the end of COVID funding, Superintendent Ken Crawford stressed the district’s goal of keeping taxes down. “Ever since we went on a bond issue, everybody thought the bond issue would push our taxes up and it has not. We’re going down $13.02 per thousand assessed, down to $13 even. It’s only a couple pennies, but we’re trying to be responsible with taxpayer money.”

When reviewed, spring sports numbers were consistent with years past, and graduation rates remain above 90%, with a five-year rate above 95%. With the current school year reaching its end, certified teaching staff contracts were approved for next year. Crawford tells KCII he was very happy with negotiations. “They had their opening proposal and we had our proposal and within 30 minutes we came to an agreement of settling at a 2.7% package which we added to our base pay.”

The Highland Community School District Board of Education’s next meeting will be held on Monday, May 8 at 5 p.m. in the High School Board Room.