Advertisement

A fifth kindergarten section was added to the elementary school to compensate for the 17 new students and to have a 19-1 kindergartners-to-teacher ratio.

Superintendent Chip Hansen told the school board at its Sept. 17 meeting that with the new students and Òif things go well in Lansing,Ó the budget may break even for the 2007-2008 school year.

The new number of students was pleasant news for the district that earlier this year had expected total enrollment to stand at 1,150.

The school board approved the new graduation requirements mandated by the state Legislature, following a second reading. The class of 2011, today's freshmen, will graduate under the new requirements.

Math credits were increased from two to four credits. Courses include Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry. A math course is also required in the senior year.

Science credits were increased from two to three credits. Courses include Physical Science, Biology and Chemistry or Physics.

Technology credits increased from one to one- and one-half credits. The technology requirement may be met through a variety of courses.

Hansen said that the school district may change to trimesters as early as next year.

The school board ratified a continuing agreement with the Bus Drivers Association, following a closed session at the meeting. The agreement includes a 1.5 percent wage increase in 2007-2008, with the remaining years of the agreement including the same percentage increase earned by the certified staff.