Preliminary Budget Aids Track, Raises Millage

The Williamsburg Community School Board listened to a presentation from senior Levi Hoover and parent Cathy Mock about the expenses of track and the cross country teams for Williamsburg. At last month's meeting, the school board asked for a listing of equipment needed and other costs, and Hoover delivered. Superintendent Lisa Murgas said that in the preliminary budget, which was approved earlier in the evening, that track and cross country received $1,500 for transportation and an $1,100 stipend for equipment.

"You all need to be congratulated on a successful program," School Board member Dr. Carlee Ranalli said.

The board also passed the budget with a .4 mill increase with revenues totaling an estimated $8,721,444 and expenditures $8,975,068. The athletic budget was adopted at a cost of $41,740, with the board contribution of $15,929.

The following lunch prices were announced for the 2023-24 school year: elementary, $2.10; high school, $2.35; adult, $3.20; and paid breakfast, $1.45.

In her report, Murgas praised all the organizers and participants of the mock accident held on the school grounds on May 1. It was the first time the school has had a mock accident in seven years, and those involved thought it was imperative to have it take place before the prom.

"It was a great event for our students," Murgas said.

Elementary Principal Jennifer Metzler took note of the many activities going on at the end of the year: field trips, ag in the classroom from ag teacher Robyn Bechtel and students; field day for grades fourth through sixth; the PTO Carnival; and beginning May 22, grade level awards will begin. May 25 will be the sixth grade graduation.

The school board also approved a scholarship of $500 to the class valedictorian and the class salutatorian. Commencement exercises for the class of 2023 will take place on May 26.

Jeff Detwiler was named the new boys head basketball coach.