The New London Community School District Board of Education approved several action items during its regular board meeting last night, April 20th, including the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, personnel matters, fundraising requests, and a restructuring plan for sixth grade.
The board also heard concerns from members and patrons regarding district finances, transportation decisions, and the direction of future budget reductions.
Budget Approved, Tax Rate Reduced
Board members approved the FY27 proposed budget with a tax rate of 15.65, which administrators said was a slight reduction from the previous year. Superintendent Chad Wahls explained adjustments were made after legislative decisions regarding budget guarantee funding.
Discussion also focused on the district’s management fund, which covers costs such as insurance, unemployment, workers compensation, and early retirement obligations.
Insurance Costs Rising
Representatives reviewing the district’s insurance renewal projected an estimated 12.3% increase overall for property, casualty, and workers compensation coverage.
A major factor was the district’s workers compensation experience modifier, which moved from a favorable rating last year to 1.4, reflecting prior claims history. Officials said those impacts could remain for several years.
The district’s insurance loss ratio was also discussed, with presenters stating claims paid out over several years significantly exceeded premiums paid in.
Sixth Grade Restructuring Approved
One of the most discussed items of the night involved the 2026-27 building structure plan.
Administrators reported the district has advertised since January for a qualified math teacher but has not secured one. Superintendent Wahls said one applicant would require sponsorship and could cost the district anywhere from $5,000 to $100,000 in legal and related expenses.
After debate, an initial motion to leave current grade structures unchanged failed on a 3-2 vote.
The board then approved a second motion to restructure sixth grade into a K-6 and 7-12 model, while leaving the exact placement and logistics of sixth grade students up to district administration.
Some board members expressed concern about disruption to students and using sixth graders to test a new structure, while others emphasized protecting higher-level math opportunities for older students as higher level math classes may need to be supplemented through online learning opportunities if 6th grade stayed in the current 6-12th structure due to a lack of qualified candidates for the open math position.
Hiring High School Students as Associates
The board also debated language changes that could allow high school seniors to serve as associates or aides in some school settings.
Members discussed the balance between creating student employment opportunities and ensuring adequate training, privacy awareness, and appropriate placements.
After discussion, revised language requiring candidates to have a high school diploma or be a senior was approved by a 3-2 vote.
Student Achievement Highlighted
District administrators shared several positive student achievement statistics:
- 82% of kindergarten students were reading at or above grade level by year-end.
- 86% reached end-of-year benchmark levels.
- 70% of graduating seniors successfully completed a college course.
- 92% of the Class of 2026 earned industry credentials or dual credit tied to career pathways.
- 76% of seniors have applied for at least one scholarship.
- The district scored 72 points in work-based learning on the school performance profile, above the state average of 45.
High school and middle school principal Scott Kracht credited teachers, advisory programs, college and career planning efforts, and mentoring support for the strong outcomes.
Other Actions Approved
The board also approved:
- Fundraisers for esports, FFA, softball, and baseball
- Personnel appointments and contract changes
- Sharing agreements with Mount Pleasant Community School District and Danville Community School District for several activities and sports
- Naming the New London Journal as the district’s official publication
- Approval of the 2026 senior graduation list
The meeting also included recognition that May is School Board Recognition Month.