March 22, 2023

We continue to host community referendum sessions throughout this week. I invite you to attend one of our three remaining sessions this evening at 5:00 p.m. at Gaston Elementary and Fruzen Intermediate or on Thursday, March 23, at 4:30 p.m. at Hackett Elementary.

During the past month, I have shared several videos regarding our upcoming referendum questions on the April 4th ballot on our social media platforms. I wanted to share two of those videos that highlight our facilities referendum and our operational referendum. You can view all our videos on our referendum website.

One of my three most important priorities for our district is student academic achievement. This past quarter, we saw progress toward proficiencies in our core content areas, specifically, in literacy and mathematics. We have turned a corner, and our internal benchmark data points are showing growth (Board presentation March 21). Through our collective efforts and working together our goals can be achieved, which ultimately is student achievement for all.

For the 10th year, the Rising Knights HBCU Tour will take 20 students on tours of historically black colleges and universities during spring break and from April 6 - 10. Over the years, 141 students have visited 48 HBCUs, and they proudly celebrate that 94% of past participants enrolled in a post-secondary institution upon graduation or are currently college-bound. This year our students will visit Jackson State University, Tougaloo College, Mississippi Valley State University, Alcorn State University, Grambling State University, Jarvis Christian University, Paul Quinn College, Norfolk State University, Hampton University, and Virginia State University. In addition to the college tours, the Rising Knights do community service, explore cultural experiences, have professional and student networking panels, and participate in other growth opportunities. We thank and acknowledge Ms. Michelle Hendrix-Nora and Ms. Regina Hendrix for their work and dedication to our students.

Spring break begins on Monday, March 27. I wish everyone a restful and relaxing week. I encourage you to unplug, get outside, and connect with your family and friends. It is important to take time to enjoy life and recharge.

In service,

Dr. Willie E. Garrison II

Superintendent, School District of Beloit

It is estimated that the mill rate will stay the same in 2023-2024 at $4.78

• The current tax mill rate (the rate the district charges your tax bill) is $4.78 per $1,000 fair market property value:

• If you own property valued at 100,000, your school tax is estimated at $478 for 2022-23.

• If you own property valued at $50,000, your school tax is estimated at $239 for 2022-23

At the Tuesday, March 21, Board of Education meeting, I shared the feedback and input I received at several reconfiguration listening sessions. I appreciated everyone’s thoughts and perspectives at these listening sessions. I have posted my presentation to the Board of Education on our reconfiguration website and my listening sessions with our families and community.

On Tuesday, April 4, at the Board of Education meeting, the proposed reconfiguration recommendation for our middle schools will be discussed.