9.12.2024
What is the budget process for a public school district?
The internal budget process can vary from school district to school district. For the Minot Public Schools, the budget process starts in the winter prior to the new school year starting. Course offerings and staffing is determined by administration. During this timeframe revenue from various sources is being projected by the Business Office. Contracts for current Certified teaching staff & Administrators must be issued by March 1 and no later than May 1. This issuance is suspended if the school board is in active negotiations.
Currently, for public school districts to receive foundation aid revenue from the State of North Dakota, they are required to levy at least 60 mills for their general fund. In setting this levy, there are three things public school districts must comply with per North Dakota Century Code regarding their tax levy and budget:
1. If a district intends to levy a tax to support the budget, a Certificate of Levy (SFN 9149) must be approved by the school board and submitted to the County Auditor by August 10 of the taxing year.
2. School Districts must allow a public budget hearing regarding the tax levy submitted to the County Auditor. This hearing must take place between September 7 and October 7.
3. The final levy for the taxing year must be approved by the school board submitted to the County Auditor by October 10.
Is there another public hearing in October?
Per NDCC the District is obligated to comply with a budget hearing regarding the proposed tax levy for the taxing year. This hearing must take place between September 7 and October 7. The district completed this obligation on September 12, 2024 at their regular school board meeting.
Who do we go to ask budget questions?
The school board is responsible for adopting and monitoring the budget. The Superintendent (or their designee) prepares, administers, monitors and details the budget. Questions regarding the budget should be directed to Superintendent Dr. Scott Faul who will direct questions into the proper chain of command.
What is the process to make changes to the budget during the year?
For the Minot Public Schools, after the final budget is adopted by the School Board, by October 10, budget amendment recommendations are presented to the school board under the Consent Agenda. In 2023-2024 the district requested six budget amendments to the 2023-2024 general fund budget at public school board meetings, largely related to new incoming grant funding.
Can the school district create videos regarding their budget process and decisions?
While this may seem ideal, the district does not currently have an employee hired for this duty.