The Palestine Community Unit School District 3 Board of Education met Wednesday for its monthly meeting and the tax levy was presented to the board.
The estimate for the tax levy showed a reduction.
The difference in the tax rate from last year is 0.2764.
“This is a significant decrease overall,” Palestine Superintendent Jessica Sisil said. “Especially when enrollment has increased in the past few years.”
“For a total of seven years in a row now, Palestine School District has lowered the tax rate,” Palestine CUSD 3 board vice president and board finance committee member/lead, Corie Biggs, said.
The tax levy will be presented to the board prior to the next meeting for its approval.
“Our goal is to continue to be a positive outlet for families educationally, of course, but we also want to be fiscally appealing,” Sisil said. “We are proud of our progress and are excited for our future ahead as we continue to welcome new families and grow.”
In regular business, the board accepted the resignation of two positions at the schools.
Molly Morecraft resigned from her position as the third grade general education teacher and Katie Duffield resigned as the junior high girls track coach. Both positions were approved to be posted for openings.
The board hired five individuals for various positions in the school district.
Shelby Mendenhall and Margo Traxler were hired as a full time bus driver.
Lori York was hired as the fifth and sixth grade cheer coach and Brandon Sisil was hired as the assistant baseball coach.
Beth Hanna was also hired as a substitute cook.
The board announced it will be taking bids for the former unit office building.
There are several upcoming events that will be held within the district in December.
The Yuletide Winter Vendor Market will be held at Palestine Grade School on Dec. 3.
The Winter Drama Club play will take place on Dec. 9 and 11 at Palestine High School.
Santa’s Workshop will be Dec. 12-16 at PGS.
On Dec. 14 from 3:30-4:30 p.m., the PGS PTO will host Santa Day for students in grades kindergarten through second grade. Parents must stay with their student during the event.
Pre-kindergarten will hold Family Night on Dec. 15.
There will be an Art Show from 6-7 p.m. on Dec. 19, followed by a band/choir concert at 7 p.m. at PGS.
Students at PHS will have finals on Dec. 20-21.
All students in the district will be released at 2 p.m. on Dec. 21 to start Christmas break.
Students will return to class on Jan. 4.