National Merit Semi-Finalist Jason Willis Recognized

Ruston High School Senior Jason Willis was recognized as a semi-finalist in the National Merit Scholarship Program at last night’s meeting of the Lincoln Parish School Board.

Assistant Superintendent John Young told the board that Willis was one of about 16 thousand semi-finalists nationwide. This number is less than 1% of all US high school seniors, he noted.

Said Young, “Jason will now continue in the competition for some 7500 national merit scholarships worth more than $30 million.” He added, “Over 90% of the semi-finalists will likely attain finalist standing, and about half the finalist ultimately win the National Merit Scholarship.”

Willis was at the meeting, along with his parents Gary and Amy.

The board scheduled a November 2 public meeting, where a resolution will be considered to call a March 26, 2022 election for re-imposition of two expiring property taxes.

Last voted upon in April, 2012, one of the taxes is parishwide and currently is levied at the rate of 9.44 mils, and the other is for the Ruston School District only, and costs property owners 2.28 mils.

Originally, the parishwide tax was approved for a rate of 10.25 mils, but the rate has incrementally declined as property values have increased.

The board approved the payment of November salary supplement checks in the amount of $3200 for certified employees and $1600 for non certified. Business Manager Juanita Duke said this was $200//$100 increase over the supplements paid last year at this time.

The personnel report was presented by Personnel Director Doris Lewis.