Fallon getting $292 less per student

Beginning in 2008, the Churchill County School District will receive almost $300 less per student after a new formula was drafted to determine per pupil funding from the state.

District finance officers from all 17 school districts in Nevada met recently in Carson City to decide if there is equity in how school districts are funded each year. The group of financial experts drafted a new model to replace one that has been used since 1967.

"They created new modules. There are some school districts that benefit and some school districts that are harmed," Churchill County School District Finance Director Jim Sustacha reported to school trustees. "Churchill County School District is one of those harmed by the new model."

The state will spread the reduction in student allotment over four years so Fallon isn't hit with a hefty decrease in money all in one year, Sustacha.

Last week there were 4,460 students enrolled in Fall schools. Using that figure, the district stands to receive $1.3 million fewer dollars over the four-year period. The new equity model shows Churchill County getting $292 less per pupil, based on this year.

Sustacha said Churchill County was lumped in with Lyon County and Carson City when the new formula was devised. When teacher salaries and benefits were computed for the three districts, an average of $59,778 a year per teacher was used.