Stearns said Moehler shouldn't have consulted the board on the issue. It was one of many decisions the administration makes daily. Moehler did what was best for the children, Stearns said, and that was what he was hired to do. Property taxes and student enrollment determine state aid. Less revenue from property taxes equals more state aid.
Higher enrollments equal more state aid.
Abilene's property tax revenue has risen, while enrollment has dwindled. Therefore, state aid will likely fall next year. In the fall, the board asked the administration for a preliminary budget and a plan addressing problems early in the year. They developed a plan and in January began implementing it. The plan called for two school closings, contract buyouts and a staffing formula.