Arcanum Schools Levy Renewal on the November Ballot

Submitted article written by John Stephens, Superintendent

On November 4th, the Arcanum - Butler Local School District will be asking the voters to approve a .75% income tax RENEWAL for the next 5 years. This is not a request for additional money. The .75% income tax generates approximately $875,000.00 per year and is necessary to maintain the high level of education students are currently receiving. The money generated from the income tax is for the specific purpose of general operations of the school district. General operating funds can only be used for supplies, staff, support staff, equipment, technology, utilities and all other items required in the general operations of the district.

The Arcanum-Butler Local School District continually aims to provide educational excellence and opportunities for students while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Arcanum-Butler spends over $2,000 less than the state average per student and approximately $500 less per student than similar districts. Despite spending less than the state average, students have performed exceptionally well on recent state report cards and have represented the district with Trojan Pride throughout our community! During the final two years of the previous report card system, the district received back-to-back “EXCELLENT” ratings. Recently, the district received all A’s and B’s on the newest state report card, a feat only matched by a few districts in all of Darke and surrounding counties. The district continues to offer many opportunities for our students, including quality academic programs, outstanding fine arts programs, various clubs, extra-curricular activities and athletic opportunities.

Since the levy renewal in 2010, the district has worked to maintain a healthy operating budget by monitoring staffing levels, energy costs and salaries. After the move into our new building facilities in 2011, the district was able to reduce the number of teaching positions by 5 ½ positions and classified positions by 1, in part by sharing of personnel between buildings. Additionally, the district is also in line to receive an “Energy-Star” rating by properly maintaining and controlling energy costs and realizing efficiencies. In the most recent negotiated Master Contract, the Arcanum-Butler Classroom Teachers Association agreed to a wage and step freeze as well as insurance concessions. Finally, administrative salaries were frozen for three straight years following the last renewal. All of the above measures were proactive steps taken by the district to help ensure financial stability.

The Arcanum-Butler School community is a special place to raise a family and district residents have much for which they can be proud. Arcanum - Butler students receive a high quality education that prepares them for future success and offers opportunities to participate outside of the classroom setting. It is that Trojan Community Pride that provides the necessary support for student success. As your superintendent, AHS alumnus, district resident and parent of an Arcanum student, I want to thank you for your continued support!