On June 14 the School Board voted to spend $23,399 from the general fund to finance a program, formerly funded by Federal monies, for the culturally disadvantaged.
If the School Board approves, 1976-77 will be the 9th year that Arcadia has participated in Title I funds under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. Primary usage for these federal funds is on those youngsters who fall below the 50th percentile in achievement tests.
The School Board has begun discussions on a proposed tax increase election to cope with galloping inflation. The Board hopes to hold the election on April 15, 1975 in conjunction with the election for Board members.
Arcadia voters overwhelmingly supported their schools in the tax base election held November 8. There was a heavy turnout, with over 80% of those eligible going to the polls.
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.
Almost $3,000,000 was tentatively awarded three foothill cities from the Federal government under the Public Works and Capital Development and Investment Act of 1976, but Arcadia was not included. Arcadia's request for $2,018.400 was denied.
The recent Supreme Court ruling which declared California's property tax funding of public education unconstitutional will have its affect of area schools.
$51,942 for a park at 6th and Longden and $90,000 for one at Colorado have been granted by the State Beach, Park, Recreational and Historical Facilities Bond Act of 1974.
By a 3-2 vote, the School Board authorized the Superintendent of Schools to sign an assurance of compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1974. This assures non-discrimination against the handicapped.
Questionnaires have been sent to a sampling of citizens to get input on how the city should spend up to $1,000,000 under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974.
Some teachers began picketing in front of the district offices. At issue were charges of stalling on negotiations and the 1% increase offer by the School Board which the teachers called "an insult." Superintendent Ed Ryan said that if the two unions had been able to get together on their demands the problem might have been resolved by now.
The April apportionment of the cigarette tax, highway users tax and "in-lieu" motor vehicle license fee has been distributed. Arcadia received $15,988, $34,441 and $76,778 respectively.