5. Board Comments
Minutes: 

Mrs. Harvey - requested status on district compliance with class size amendment. 

Tim McGonegal, Assistant Superintendent for Business Services, responded that every classroom will not be at the 18/22/25 level because we are not being funded for that yet, but the district is meeting the required school average. 

Mrs.  Harvey asked if ESE (Exceptional Student Education) classrooms are included in the average.  

Mr. McGonegal confirmed they are, because they are considered core classrooms.

Mr. Miller - noted that the standard he holds as extremely important is the amount of money that is put into each classroom.  He also said energy costs within the district are being watched.

Mr. Kinnan - said he's excited that we have done so well managing the budget, and complimented the Finance Department staff.

Mr. Brunner - reminded the Board of the reasons for the half-cent sales tax and its benefit to the district, and clarified staff reductions that took place at the School Support Center and in the schools.  Mr. Brunner also noted that by Florida law we are required to have a balanced budget.  He discussed growth as it relates to full-time equivalent (FTE), property taxes, and Homestead Exemptions, and how it impacts district revenue.  He commented that even with the challenges in keeping up with growth, the district has increased significantly its fund balance, representing significant Board stewardship.

6. Superintendent Comments
Minutes: 

Dr. Dearing - Thanked the Finance Department for the work they did on the budget, while at the same time moving toward the Board's goal of having a safe and adequate unencumbered fund balance.