The Jeannette School Board on Monday gave its approval to reduce the district's total debt with the addition of $115,637 in state funding received for the 2002-2003 fiscal year. Last month, the board approved a 3.5-mill tax increase to balance a $12.7-million budget. With the increase in state aid, the school district could apply the funds to reduction of debt, restoring educational cuts, or a tax abatement program. Brett Lago, business manager for the school district, said a tax refund didn't add up. "The average tax rebate check would have totaled $10 per person after costs," Lago said. Despite the additional funds, school board members said they still see trouble ahead for the 2003-2004 fiscal year. "We're looking at an 11.5-mill increase next year," said school Director Nick Masciantonio. "But this extra state funding is the first step to help offset the millage increase next year." "We've cut off about 2 mills from next year's increase by adding this funding to reduction of our debt," Lago added. "Don't look for much more state aid next year, especially with the economy as it is." Cost-cutting measures for the 2002-2003 budget included the elimination of two elementary teaching positions, 47 supplemental positions, the purchase of new textbooks, funding for the athletic department, and the elimination of a bus route. Superintendent Vincent Aiello said an expansion of the walking boundaries up to Linden Drive and Hickory, and Western Avenue down to Division Street, was necessary. The expanded walking boundaries for students will save the district $33,000. Of the 3.5-mill tax increase for the upcoming fiscal year, 2.25 mills are targeted for the renovation of the high school, which began several weeks ago. The expected completion date of the $12.5-million project is January 2004.

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