NEW ULM — The New Ulm School Board of Education voted to approve the levy of taxes payable at Wednesday’s board meeting.

The proposed approved was $839,991.77. District Business Manager Myrna Meunier said this is a levy increase of $289,012.55 or 3.56% from the 2019 levy.

Superintendent Jeff Bertrang said in September the levy was at an over 4% increase, but it was slightly reduced. In 2019, there was no increase to the levy.

No public comments were received during the meeting.

The board unanimously approved the levy. Board member Amanda Groebner was absent.

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The board conducted the first reading of new policy regarding service animals in school. The policy defines a service animal like a dog or miniature horse trained to perform “work or tasks.” Other species are not considered service animals, nor pets. Comfort animals are not considered service animals under this policy.

Bertrang said this is a state requirement.

The board also conducted the second reading of policies involving student fundraising, curriculum, graduation requirements, grant guidance, and general public relations.

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The board approved the Jefferson Physical Education innovation grant for the Lu-Duo Interactive System in the Jefferson gym. This grant includes two separate systems, allowing both sides of the gym to provide interactive physical education skill development.

The cost of the system is $35,313.19. An additional $3,500 is necessary to provide additional electrical connections in the gym ceiling.

The plan is to install the system during spring break to avoid shutting the gym down for a week. If the equipment is not available during the spring, the system will be installed over the summer.

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The board recognized student achievements. Three sixth-graders were recognized for their selection in the Lion’s Club International Peace Poster contest. Sixth graders Sophia Berger was first-place winner, Elizabeth Dake second place and Collin Forstner was third place.

Eighth-grader Sarah Todesco was recognized having her artwork chosen for the programs a the Middle School Association conference.

Third-grader AuDee Darnell was recognized for the SOAR (Self-control, On-Task, Accountable and Respect) award. She was nominated two times in the 2019-2020 school year.

Kindergartener Jayden DeLeo was recognized by the Washington Learning Center staff for being extremely kind and thoughtful to his peers and the staff.

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The next school board study session will be held Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020, at 5 p.m. in the New Ulm High School Conference Room, 1600 Oak Street. The next regular school board meeting will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2020, at 6 p.m. at the District offices Boardroom, 414 South Payne Street.