Robert Caplinger

The budget for Laveen Elementary School District includes total budgeted revenues for fiscal year 2024. Estimated revenues by source for fiscal year 2025 include local, intermediate, state, and federal sources. District tax rates for prior and budget fiscal years are specified for primary and secondary tax rates. Total budgeted expenditures and the aggregate school district budget limit are detailed for the Maintenance and Operation Fund, Unrestricted Capital Fund, and federal projects. Average teacher salaries for FY 2025 and FY 2024 are compared, with the percentage increase noted. Special education programs by type, including all disability classifications, gifted education, remedial education, and ELL incremental costs, are outlined. The Classroom Site Fund (CSF) and CSF Budget Limit are calculated, with expenditures detailed for instruction and support services. The Unrestricted Capital Outlay (UCO) Fund is presented, with expenditures for instruction, support services, operation and maintenance of plant, student transportation, and facilities acquisition and construction. Other funds, including Bond Building, New School Facilities, and Adjacent Ways Fund, are detailed with select object codes. Federal projects, such as ESEA Title I and IDEA Part B, and state projects are listed with their respective expenditures. The calculation of the FY 2025 General Budget Limit includes the Revenue Control Limit, District Additional Assistance, Override Authorization, and tuition revenue.

The budget includes total budgeted revenues, estimated revenues by source, and district tax rates for fiscal years 2024 and 2025. It covers maintenance and operation funds, unrestricted capital funds, and federal projects. The budget also details expenditures for various programs, including regular education, special education, pupil transportation, and K-3 reading programs. Additionally, it outlines special education programs by type, such as disability classifications, gifted education, and ELL incremental costs. The budget also accounts for classroom site funds, unrestricted capital outlay, and other funds for capital expenditures, including construction services, land improvements, and furniture and equipment.

The meeting included a superintendent's report with updates on remodeling work at Vistad Del Sur Accelerated Academy, the opening of Lavine's Helping Hands Closet, the annual new staff induction, and the all-staff welcome back celebration. The implementation of the USDA Community Eligibility Provision, offering free meals to all students, and the launch of a new student tracking app, Bus Quest, were also discussed. A partnership with Betty H Fairfax High School for an in-person Zero Hour geometry class was highlighted, and governing board president Jill Bargan was congratulated for receiving the ASBO International Distinguished Eagle Award. The school safety plan was reviewed, including an all-hazards approach to emergency planning, lockdown procedures, and best practices for safety implementations. Cyber security measures were also discussed.

The document outlines the certified salary schedule for the 2025-2026 academic year, including additional compensation for teachers from the Classroom Site Fund, subject to state funding and legislative actions. It details base salaries and potential performance pay, along with longevity recognition for employees at the top step of their column. Funding of these salaries is contingent upon full state education formula funding.

The Laveen Elementary School District's Gifted Education Program aims to provide challenging learning experiences and resources for gifted students (K-8). The program uses a multifaceted approach to identification, incorporating standardized tests, teacher and parent input, and other indicators of giftedness. Services are delivered through differentiated instruction, supplemental activities, acceleration, and honors classes (grades 7-8). The curriculum is aligned with Arizona State Standards, with modifications to ensure mastery and extension beyond the standards. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, STEM skills, and social-emotional learning. Parent and staff involvement is encouraged through various communication channels and events. The program's effectiveness is assessed through standardized test scores, district assessments, surveys, and teacher feedback.