SCHOOL OKs TAX RATE

In its first meeting of the new school year, the Cape Girardeau Board of Education approved an exception to the school transportation rule and set the property tax rate for the coming year.

The property tax rate for people living in the school district will not change from last year's $3.41 per $100 assessed valuation. School boards are required to hold a yearly public tax-rate hearing before Sept. 1 to set a tax levy.

The board also approved a policy exception to provide transportation to some students who otherwise would not be allowed to ride school buses. The board approved the exception because district policy allows transportation only for students who live more than a mile from their assigned school.

Schools Superintendent Dr. Dan Steska said so far this year, there have been no requests for exceptions.

"The exception takes into account students who live under a mile but who live in an area where it would be hazardous for them to cross a major street," Steska said. For example, elementary students who would have to cross Kingshighway or William streets to go to school would be eligible for bus transportation.