April 22, 2020

Patrons of Salmon River JSD 243,

Who would have thought that in the thirteen years as a district we would have experienced an economic recession and now we are in the middle of a coronavirus pandemic! But, unlike the earlier recession the district is in a much better position to endure the current crisis thanks to the continual support of the community.

Over the years, we have been able to continue to hire and retain quality individuals to work with our students.  We are also seeing an increase in enrollment due in part by a number of Salmon River Alumni returning to the area to raise their children in the Riggins area.  All new students and their parents have made a positive impact on our schools.

The teachers and students have been working at implementing the new language art and math curriculum that was purchased last year. Due to the coronavirus the staff, students and parents have transitioned to “distant learning” because of the “soft closure” requirement implemented the Idaho State Board of Education on all Idaho schools for the remainder of the school year. On behalf of the Board of Trustees I would like to thank everyone for helping support or students and their parents during this time.

At the end of the school year Jeri Best is retiring.  She is currently our high school counselor.  Over the years, she has served in a number of different roles, including the high school secretary for a number of years.

Even though, the school district is in a “soft closure” we will still have a graduation ceremony to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of our seniors.  The high school staff and seniors are working on details that meet the appropriate regulations that we are currently under.

The election for the Supplemental Levy is Tuesday May 19^th. Please see attached “Fact Sheet” for more information on the Supplemental Levy.  Most importantly, remember to Vote.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic You MUST vote by Absentee ballot. You must request an absentee ballot from the county in which you live in or you can make the request online at idahovotes.gov. by May 19^thand return the ballot back to your County Clerk’s office by June 2^nd.

Thanks again for your continual support.

Sincerely,

Jim Doramus

Annual Salmon River JSD #243

Supplemental Levy

Tuesday – May 19^th

*Due to the COVID-19 situation You MUST vote by Absentee ballot. You must request an absentee ballot from the county in which you live in or you can make the request online at idahovotes.gov. by May 19^thand return the ballot back to your County Clerk’s office by June 2^nd.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why do we need a $525,000 Levy?

The state of Idaho continues to under fund education, leaving schools without the needed funds to meet educational requirements. This Levy replaces last years, this is not an additional Levy and supplements our income to maintain our current operations and covers the state’s shortfall

for basic operation, special education, advanced placement courses, extra-curricular activities such as BPA, athletics, and much more. This Levy will show on your December 2020-2021 tax assessment bills.

How much will it cost me on my taxes?

It will cost $2.92 per thousand ($0.89 less than last year) of the assessed value of your property, minus the homeowner’s exemption. For more information on how to figure your homeowner exemption visit:  http://tax.idaho.gov/i-1051.cfm

Are we going to need a supplemental Levy every year?

YES, this is an ANNUAL replacement Levy and as long as the State of Idaho continues its current form of funding for public education we will need a supplemental Levy. Continued support from our community is vital, State and Federal funding is unstable and inadequate.  Our school is vital to the community of Riggins.  Our community needs families to survive and families need and want a good quality school.

What if the Levy doesn’t pass?

The school board and administration will be forced to make difficult cuts that will drastically affect the quality of education, our students, our staff, our facilities, and our community.

What do we want in our schools?

We desire to maintain a safe environment and a quality of education to advance opportunities for both college preparatory, vocational pursuits, and continue to enhance the curriculum and technology with professional development for our staff so they can have the necessary tools to give every student the opportunity to excel.  The district took on the responsibility of providing Preschool services to our families, due to the closure of Head Start. Our district feels strongly that children who attend a high-quality early childhood education program, make cognitive and social gains that prepare them to start school.  State monies cannot be used to fund a preschool program.

 Many of our students that go on to college are well prepared and most with numerous dual credits on their transcripts and receive substantial scholarships. We want to continue extra-curricular activities, which plays a major role in a student’s ability to work as a team player as well as accept defeat and victory in good sportsmanship. We have great & talented students in our schools that deserve the best we can give them; our athletic accomplishments are just icing on the cake!

 Preparing students for a global workplace with 21^st century communication and critical thinking skills is crucial.  Technology plays a huge role in this and is VERY underfunded.  It is nearly impossible for districts to maintain current equipment and keep up with the ever-changing world of technology with the money provided by the state.

 

How does the Levy benefit me as a taxpayer?

Having a quality school in our area brings families to the area and promotes business and industry. These businesses yield the jobs needed to sustain our community. Property owners and renters are both stakeholders in our schools and have voting privileges. Keeping a thriving community keeps our properties value. Also keeps our stores, restaurants, gas stations, financial institutions, and other businesses open.

 

Facts:

* Your vote is very important; make sure you get yours in!

*We’ve been our own district for over 13 years. 100% of this Levy goes to our local School District!

*We’ve been able to hire and retain quality Teachers and Support Staff!

* Both our Jr./Sr. High School and our Elementary School have met their State and Federal Academic Goals!

*We have 5 volunteer members of this community serving as our local school board: Rich Friend, Eric Hook, Barbara Hawkins, John Pottenger, and Laina Walkington.

 

Thank you for the support of our local youth!

 

Visit our school website www.jsd243.org and feel free to call our Business Manager with any budget questions 630-6027 or attend the monthly school board meetings, held on the 3^rd Monday of the month at the High School.

 

 

Levy Fact Sheet 2020

Levy Letter 2020