During the Dec. 12 Northwestern Lehigh School Board meeting, directors gave a first reading to the local taxpayer bill of rights policy, federal fiscal compliance policy and property records policy.

The policies may be viewed in the district office.

A Weisenberg fourth grade visit to Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Stroudsburg, was ap-proved by the board for May 31, 2013, with money coming from the student activity fund.

Community education classes beginning in January 2013 include basket weaving, yoga, strength and endurance training and Zumba.

Business Manager Leslie Frisbee said a resolution would be needed to stay within the 2 percent increase in taxes that is allowed.

She said the goals of the 2013-14 budget are to maintain appropriate class size; support the strategy plan for mission, vision and goals; maximize efficiencies; and to provide a funding plan to meet district needs while minimizing potential tax increases.

She said revenue is from earned income tax, real estate transfer tax, donations, property tax and tuition from other districts.

Smaller amounts are expected next year by eliminating the amusement tax, and less will be provided for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

An 8-percent decrease in federal funding is built into the new budget. The bond financing that was discussed has not been built into the new budget.

Board member Ron Morrison attended the Pennsylvania School Boards Association legislative session at Hershey. He said the session was inspirational.

One of the speakers, Morrison said, explained how not to give up on goals.

Schafer said he heard about the voting procedures for legislators, and community engagement and fiscal responsibility, but said networking is the reason to attend.

Board member Darryl Schafer attended Project Search at Good Shepherd, which offers special training.

So far, 30 students have graduated. Two of them are unable to go into employment. Twenty-seven have been accepted for employment.

Board member LeRoy Sorensen asked if security is necessary in the board room.

Schafer said the arrangement began two years ago when a visitor was emotionally charged and a man in Florida discharged a gun during a board meeting. The board decided as the cost is low, the security will be retained.

Sorensen said he mentioned the issue because there are 40,000 deaths a year with cars, but "we still drive."