MIRANDA JAMISONA spending plan projecting a decline in revenue alongside expanded incentives for teachers received approval from the Excelsior Springs School Board during its latest meeting.Board members voted five to zero to adopt the 2025-26 budget, with member Traci White abstaining from the decision. The budget includes more than $45 million in total expenditures and reflects continued investment in personnel costs and instructional support. Superintendent Dr. Jaret Tomlinson acknowledged the district’s conservative approach to forecasting, saying, “I hope I’m wrong on the revenues.”The plan maintains a base salary of $42,000 for certified staff and continues funding for the state-supported Career Ladder program. Under this initiative, teachers can earn additional compensation for work performed beyond their contracted hours, with potential stipends up to $5,000. Certificated salaries alone account f...