Knox Schools Realize Savings Through Bond Refinancing

Knox-School-Board-2014Good news! The decision, last night, to refinance the Knox school system’s pension bond will save an estimated $185,000 for taxpayers over the life of the bond, according to Superintendent A.J. Gappa.

High School principal Dr. Elizabeth Ratliff, reminded the public that the Knox 2015 graduation ceremony is scheduled Friday night at 7 p.m. in the Weinberg Gymnasium.

She also reported that students have already purchased 125 of the school’s used computers. Parents will be able to purchase others on Wednesday and the public will have an opportunity to make purchases of the remaining computers on Thursday. Any unsold computers will then be purchased by the supplier. Contact the high school for information.

A 3-week “Kindergarten Countdown” is scheduled to begin at the elementary school with 20 students. The event provides kindergarten readiness for those who have not attended pre-school. The “countdown” is funded by grants from IU Health, the Starke County Community Foundation and Starke United.

Middle School principal Josh Pugh noted that middle school students have volunteered to help with the up-coming Relay for Life event.

Superintendent Gappa discussed with the board the possibility of housing the Wellness for Life clinic services on campus. The unique no-cost service for Knox teachers and staff, as well as those from those from the Oregon-Davis School, provided by the Insurance Trust, include tests, check-ups and provides generic drugs, in Knox two days a week. The service is available in Valparaiso the other three days a week. Currently the services of a doctor and/or nurse is provided in a building complex that will soon no longer be available. The discussion will continue at another meeting of the board.