Many schools are being forced to make cuts and scale back because of the state's money troubles. But in Goddard, expansions are being made.
"We're a growing district," says Doug Maxwell of Goddard Schools. "we are in an area where our assessed values are increasing. Other areas haven't been so lucky."
The Goddard School District says it's weathering a financial storm. The district needs to cut $3 million from its operating budget while at the same time add 3 schools to meet the increasing student population. That means making difficult decisions, including cutting 34 non-teaching jobs.
At the same time it's losing employees, the district is looking to hire at the new high school opening next year. A new elementary and middle school opened in Goddard this year. All 3 schools were built as part of an $84 million bond project.
"Bond funds used for construction can only be used for construction," says Maxwell. "They can't be used for operating costs, so we couldn't divert those funds to pay for teacher's salaries or classroom programs."
In an effort to avoid more lay-offs, the district instituted an activity fee. That fee can be as much as $100 for students taking part in sports, drama, or other after school activities.
The bond project will be paid off in 20 years.
