During a recent school board meeting, members discussed the pressing need for a future referendum to address significant budget cuts impacting the New Prague area schools. Over the past two academic years, the district has faced two failed operational levies, resulting in a staggering $6.5 million in reductions, including the loss of nearly 30 staff positions.

Board members expressed unanimous support for pursuing a new levy, emphasizing the importance of transparent communication with the community to rebuild trust and ensure the success of future funding initiatives. Carrie Cuff highlighted the necessity of presenting a clear financial picture to the public, while Leo Giesen stressed the need for dialogue with taxpayers to understand their concerns and expectations.

Matt Goldaddy acknowledged the board's responsibility for the failed referendums, stating that effective communication of the district's needs is crucial. He noted that local funding has remained stagnant for over a decade, while expenses continue to rise, necessitating additional revenue to maintain educational quality.

Dennis Havlicek reinforced the idea that a successful referendum is essential for providing a quality education, urging parents to engage in the voting process. Kim Holden echoed this sentiment, advocating for better community outreach to clarify the implications of funding decisions on education.

As the meeting concluded, candidates reiterated their commitment to listening to community feedback and fostering collaboration among board members, parents, and administration to enhance the educational experience for students. The board's collective goal remains clear: to secure the necessary funding to support the district's future and ensure that all students receive the quality education they deserve.