A final tentative budget for the 1978-79 school year has been adopted by the Arcadia Board of Education. The final figure was set at $15.4 million, but will probably be revised as state formulas affect the budget during the year.
The Board of Education approved a $17 million budget for 1979-80, representing an increase of 8.2% over last year. The budget provides an 8.19% increase in salary and benefits for certificated employees. A major problem appears in special education, which the state has not fully funded.
The Arcadia Board of Education has been studying the legal status and requirements of driver education. So far driver education has not been offered at Arcadia High School this year.
The Arcadia Board of Education, in an effort to recoup between $60,000 and $75,000 lost in expenditures in negotiations with employees, has selected Norman E. Miller to negotiate with the state for reimbursement of the funds.
The Arcadia Board of Education will be asked to approve criteria determining if segregation exists in local schools. A public hearing will then be held, and a report submitted to the State Dept. of Education.
In a surprise move, the School Board voted to accept Federal funds under Title I. The monies will go to Bonita Park Elementary School to reinforce the education of culturally deprived children in reading and math.
The Board of Education approved a joint powers agreement with the city regarding use of part of the First Avenue Junior High School site for recreational purposes.
Two ad hoc committees have been established to help the Board of Education make a final ruling on two major problems: Smoking (recent legislation has made smoking on campus legal at the discretion of the local school board) and Graduation requirements.
Senate Bill 275 (Ding Bill), which provides for collective bargaining, binding arbitration, and the right to strike, is causing great conflict between the School Board and teachers in the Arcadia district. The Board has voted 5-0 to support the Winston Act and oppose any State legislation that would replace its provisions. The Winston Act was passed in 1969 and required that School Boards meet and confer in good faith with teachers in determining salary schedules, fringe benefits, and working conditions.
The Board of Education has decided that the First Avenue Junior High School will be rebuilt following the present basic configuration. Article indicates possibilities for interior plans.