LETTERS: JACKSON DISTRICT CLARIFIES CLAIMS MADE IN LETTER

To the editor:

In order to clarify information that was recently published regarding the Jackson School District:

1. The projected deficit of $954,000 in the operating fund is for the 2004-2005 year and is based on assumptions and information currently available. It is not for the current or next year's budget.

2. A proposal to freeze salaries has not been "called for" by the board or administration.

3. The purchase of land funded by bond issues would require a tax increase in the debt-service fund. This would increase the amount of taxes paid by patrons. An increase in the debt-service levy due to a bond issue does not result in additional state funding, while an increase in the operating levy would result in additional state aid.

4. A balance in the capital-projects fund ensures that funds are available in the event of an unexpected major capital expense. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education allows districts to transfer a limited amount of funds to the capital-projects fund. It is recommended that districts transfer as much as possible, because this is the only means of obtaining funds in the capital fund without a tax levy. The decision on how much to transfer is done on an annual basis.

5. The administration and board have engaged in long-range planning which involves community and staff input. They also continue to carefully review the district's financial procedures and projections to move the district into the future.

JIM WELKER

Assistant Superintendent

Jackson School District

Jackson, Mo.