The New Franklin Board of Education approved the latest tax rate, the district’s revised budget, and the district’s new COVID-19 response plan heading into the new school year at its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, August 17.

Following an open tax rate hearing, the board gave approval for a tax rate of $5.2496 per $100 of assessed valuation of real and personal property. Included in the tax is $4.4266 for the operating levy, and $.8230 for the debt service levy.

The district’s latest COVID-19 policy mirrors that of the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA). Staff and students who test positive for the virus should isolate at home for five days, then wear masks when around others for an additional five days. Isolation may end after five days if there are no symptoms. A staff member or student who tests positive must be fever free for 24 hours without the aid of fever-reducing medication before returning to school.

In other business, state transportation aid and federal food service applications were approved. The board voted in favor for the adoption of the state and local special education compliance plan and reviewed changes to the flex program handbook. Board members also discussed needed repairs to restrooms and plumbing in the high school.

The New Franklin school board meets monthly on the third Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m. in the board room. Meetings are open and the public is invited.