District stays on levy course

With no comment from the public or school board members, a 2025 levy increase was approved in Wrenshall Tuesday in a Truth in Taxation hearing before the regular school board meeting.

Superintendent Jeff Pesta called the budgeting in the district the past four years a solid path for the district. Next year’s levy is “staying close to home,” he said, and the better news is that the district’s fund balance is increasing: $506,000 in 2023 to $800,000 in 2024, Pesta said.

Better financial shape means the district can look for ways to improve its education offerings and provide support for staff. During the regular meeting following the hearing, principal Michelle Blanchard spoke to the board about some changes in staffing to boost administrative support at the school, including the idea of an assistant principal. Some shuffling could occur for the next half of the school year.

The board on Tuesday approved a job posting for a new half-time superintendent. The salary range is $75,000 to $85,000. The application deadline is Jan. 6.