One of the strengths of a community is its school system, and times are good right now for Rugby’s public schools.

The district will again operate on a balanced budget, and there is more good news.

Changes in the state education funding formula have lessened the burden on local property taxpayers to the tune of a 75-mill reduction.

Also, over grants totaling $500,000 tied to the federal government’s stimulus bill have enabled the district to complete much-needed building repairs and plan other improvements in the coming year. Moreover, administrators and teachers have planned a Title One before-and after-school program plus a kindergarten parent and student preparation class, both to be offered this term. Additional classroom equipment and supplies have been added with grant dollars.

Enrollment numbers continue to be stable or slightly up, which enables state per-pupil payments to be favorable. The additional revenue has allowed the board to give decent salary raises for its staff, and put the district in a position to be comparable with larger districts in its salary and benefits schedule.

The creation of the Career and Technical Education consortium, distance learning and dual-credit programs with neighboring colleges means there are more curriculum opportunities for students than ever before.

And speaking of students, Rugby continues to excel in the classroom, reaching education achievement standards set by the state. And a big reason for that is the commitment and talent of the staff and parents playing an active role in their children’s education.

Indeed, there are a lot of positives right now for the Rugby schools, but of course, the district must keep an eye to the future.

Enrollment numbers will eventually begin to decline, affecting revenue streams. And maintaining the district’s buildings and grounds is an ongoing challenge.

For now, the community can take comfort in knowing one of its pillars is doing well.