The preliminary 1978-79 Arcadia School District budget has been approved. Public hearings will be held in September prior to the passage of the final budget.
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.
On July 18 the School Board approved an expenditure of $2000 for plans and specifications for an addition to the High School Little Theater to be used as a set shop. However, the $40,000 estimated cost of the addition is not in the published budget.
The Arcadia Board of Education approved a tentative $16.7 million budget. Included was an increase in special education programs. The figures are only estimates and will depend in part on any state school finance formulas to be decided.
Proposals to further reduce the Arcadia school district budget include elimination of all field trips not within walking distance and of all music festivals.
The Arcadia Board of Education turned down a recommendation to shorten the last week of school at the high school. The recommendation was that for the last week, Monday would be a full day, while Tuesday through Thursday would be half days.
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.
A $10.4 million budget will be aired for the public June 14, 1976. The largest item is $2.2 million for the Police Department. Next is the Fire Department at $1.6 million.
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.
With the tax base increase having been approved by the voters on April 15, both Unions representing teachers in Arcadia presented new contract terms to the School Board.
An addition to the High School Little Theater has been approved for a bid of $67,350. The addition will be used for set design, etc. The $20,000 cost increase over what had been tentatively set did not please the School Board.
A $9 million budget has been proposed for 1975-76. City manager Lyman Cozad feels that no tax increase will be necessary due to the higher valuation of city property.
There will be no summer school in the Arcadia Unified School District due to the passage of Proposition 13 limiting property taxes to 1 percent of the assessed valuation.
The Arcadia Unified School District is planning an ambitious expansion of its academic programs in 1974. Career guidance, library resources centers and reading programs will be emphasized.