Westfield Washington School officials are grateful that the community approved its $4.6 million operating referendum, but the hours of anticipation were very nerve-wracking.

It's nerve-wracking because it meant people's jobs (if voted down)," said WWS Director of Business Nick Verhoff. "I was thinking about this affects so many people's jobs and how many families would be impacted. The school system would not be the same."

Verhoff and Keen were able to take a sigh of relief when the final poll numbers showed residents approved the operating fund referendum 54.18 percent (5,123 votes) to 45.82 percent (4,333) - a total difference of 790 votes.

Westfield Washington Schools asked voters to pay $4.6 million over seven years - a tax rate impact of $0.23 per $100 of assessed value.

"It replenishes lost state funding and allows us to keep the programs and staff we currently have," said Verhoff. "It's not to add additional programs or higher salaries."

By 2011, WWS will have lost $7 million in state funding. With the referendum, the district wants to replace a portion but not all of the funds lost. Westfield receives $5,006 per student in state support while the average school in Indiana receives $5,864 - funding across the state ranges from $4,900 to $9,000. With the approved referendum and state funding, WWS will receive $5,700 per student.

Keen said the operating referendum will help the district control class, prevent layoffs and teacher cuts, keep WWS students competitive, support a growing enrollment, and maintain the district's high level of technology.
© 2011 The Times