The Austin School Board set a lot of dates at Monday’s meetings, but the price of milk was on everyone’s minds.

Tuesday, July 10, 2001

The Austin School Board set a lot of dates at Monday’s meetings, but the price of milk was on everyone’s minds.

"I remember when milk was two cents a carton," said board president David Simonson.

A small carton of milk will cost 35 cents this fall, up from 30 cents the past year. It was the only increase in food costs.

"With us keeping our rates as they have been, we’ll be similar to the majority of other Big 9 school districts," said Lori Volz, Business Services Director who was also recognized for receiving a School Business Administrator license.

The board also discussed bids for Wescott Field Phase II improvements, which had been opened on April 19, 2001 and will expire on July 19.

"As of today, we do not have the additional fund raising yet," said Volz.

The board also accepted $500 in computer donations, as well as awarded proceeds from the Eunice Rice trust fund, $37.97, to Hilary Roberts, the highest ranking graduating senior at Austin High School.

Former High Potential Coordinator Terry Ersland recognized Forrest Miller as a representative of the Elks Club, which contributed $3,200 for the school’s annual High Distinction Banquet.

Julie Jensen was approved as acting Superintendent. She will serve until July 23, when Corrine Johnson will assume her duties as the district’s interim superintendent.

The district will hold its annual truth-in-taxation hearing, which is related to the school levy, on Nov. 29. It will decide on adopting the levy at it’s regular meeting on Monday, Dec. 10.

Starting August 28, citizens may declare their candidacy for the school board in the fall’s general election. They will have until Sept. 11 to do so for the Nov. 6, 2001 general election. There is a $2 filing fee for each candidate.

The board decided to hold the district’s annual surplus property auction on July 24 at 10 a.m. The district will auction off surplus computer equipment, furniture, shop equipment, maintenance equipment and other supplies. In past years, the district received several thousand dollars from the sale.

The Board will meet again in a special work session on Monday, July 24, when the final health insurance report for 2001 will be accepted.

Board member Amy Baskin was absent from yesterday’s meeting.

Call Sam Garchik at 434-2233 or e-mail him at newsroom@austindailyherald.com.