W-M School Board approves 2014-15 budget

WAKEFIELD - The Wakefield-Marenisco School Board approved the 2014-15 budget at its meeting Monday evening.

"The projected fund balance for June 30, 2015, is $72,237," said business manager Tina Trevarthen said. "We plan to end this year with a balance of $13,164."

Superintendent Cathy Shamion presented the student growth model to the board.

"As a school, we were at 93 percent passing," she said, "Our goal has always been 95 percent and this is the highest we've ever been."

The board heard reports on building and grounds renovations. Projects to be completed include the roof drain, parking lot and east half of the library, which will be converted to a Google Chromebook lab.

"We're waiting on design plans now from Coleman Engineering and Integrated Designs Inc.," Shamion said.

"Everything is gonna be done by the end of the summer," said president Brad Dalbec, regarding the parking lot renovation.

The board approved its annual membership in the Michigan High School Athletic Association.

It received a letter from the MHSAA congratulating the school on receiving no negative comments, including concerns or rejections, on the referee's report for the 2013-14 year.

The board also approved the 2014-15 academic calendar, which included 179 teacher days and 175 student days.

"We exceed the hour requirements, which will make up for unforgiven days at the end of the year," Shamion said.

The board approved the appointment of Mark Lane as the shared athletic director and Steven Boniface as the shared band instructor between the Wakefield-Marenisco and Bessemer school districts.

It heard an update on the renewal of the $1 million building/site sinking fund.

So far, the fund has purchased new bleachers, a new kindergarten room, kitchen equipment, a new roof and fencing, Shamion said.

"For the new fund, our No. 1 project would be the windows," she said. "The sinking fund can't be used to buy buses or technology. And it's time we replaced our fleet of buses."

The board also heard an update on the consolidation proposal, which has been removed from the upcoming August ballot.

"For those that have been rallying to put consolidation on the ballot, deadlines can be met to put in on the November ballot," Shamion said.

Shamion received a letter grade of "A" for her annual evaluation.

"The grade is determined on an A to F scale, with F being deficient," Dalbec said.

It also approved a request to allow fundraising for new volleyball team uniforms.

Two special board meetings will be held July 7 at 6 p.m. in the W-M gym and July 14 at 6 p.m. in the Marenisco Township Hall to discuss consolidation.

The next regular meeting will be held July 28.