By By Kelly Quackenbush/The Meridian Star
April 26, 2001
Meridian Public School officials reacted Wednesday to news that funding from state sources will be significantly cut in the upcoming school year.
The city school district faces reductions totaling $206,298.
Superintendent Dr. Janet McLin said the school district is required to maintain a reserve fund.
McLin said administrators are examining the budget and cutting back "where they can." The position of director of public relations for Meridian Public Schools was recently eliminated; the position is currently filled by Barbara Kidd.
The state will not supply any money for textbooks for the upcoming school year. Schools administrators say they are making a list based on priority. Only the most crucial textbooks will be purchased.
McLin said the reserve fund is a "rainy day" savings account set aside for unexpected costs. The fund covered a new chiller system for Meridian High School last year which cost several hundred thousand dollars.
With recent developments in education funding, McLin said she is thankful to have the reserve fund in place.
Kelly Quackenbush is a staff writer for The Meridian Star. Call her at 693-1551, ext. 3228, or e-mail her at kquackenbush@themeridianstar.com.