Influx of money helps, but still short

July 1, 2015

by Ariana Cherry
Arthur/Sullivan Reporter

The Arthur-Lovington/Atwood-Hammond School Board approved an amended budget for 2014-2015 at their last regular board meeting after receiving an unexpected payment of $285,000 from the state.
“We are definitely excited about the additional revenue,” said superintendent Kenny Schwengel.
The district received $121,000 for transportation, $122,900 for special education services and $42,000 from the “adequacy grant.” Although the board received the unexpected funding, the state is still short, sending the district about $225,000 due to the 89% proration (11% cut). “Had we not received that money, we would have been about a half a million short of what we should have received,” explained Schwengel. “We continue to look for opportunities to save money due to the financial outlook in Illinois. Purchases have to be reduced. Staffing will be reduced when possible due to attrition,” he added. As of May 2015, the district’s overall balance stood at $1,128,388.12.     Login or Subscribe to read the rest of this story.