CHERRY TOWNSHIP - Freshmen in the Moniteau School District scored a touchdown Monday night as school board members approved a new ninth grade football program to begin this fall.

But just one month before a preliminary budget for 2005-06 will be presented to the board, one board member expressed concerns over the funding for the program, estimated at $5,000.

"Do we have this money or are we cutting educational funds?" asked Trixie Heck, saying she is in favor of adding the program, but she is concerned the funds may be needed for books or other educational supplies.

"I would not jeopardize the education of any child for any reason," said superintendent Michael Panza.

He noted that in the past, money has been made available by buying some school supplies locally instead of using more expensive supply catalog companies. Those changes, he said, cut the dollar amount budgeted for school supplies, but not the amount of supplies bought.

Noting that funds for the football program would come from the athletic budget, board member Stacey Armagost wanted confirmation the investment would be worthwhile.

"I want to make sure these kids have games to play," said Armagost. She said the team must have sufficient games scheduled to make the program worthwhile.

After noting that approving the program would give coaches time to schedule games, the board unanimously approved the new program.

The funding, however, was approved for one year only, giving the board the opportunity to discontinue the program after evaluating the first year's participation and costs.

In another matter, the board also approved the refinancing of a 2001 bond issue that could save the school district $150,000.

The resolution gives the board the opportunity to refinance up to $8 million at any time during a 120-day period, based on the stock market.

Anthony Ditka, a bond counselor with the law office of Thorpe, Reed and Armstrong, explained to the board the 120-day period would give the board the option of refinancing when market conditions are best or to opt out of refinancing if interest rates are not optimal during that time.

In other business, the board:

Approved a motion to invite state Sen. Don White, R-41st, to all school board meetings until Act 72 is finalized.

Announced an Act 72 public informational meeting will be at 7 p.m. April 11 in the high school auditorium.

The school board has until May 30 to opt in or out of Act 72, which provides property tax relief to the school district's taxpayers if the school accepts state tax money from slot machines.

If the district accepts the slot machine proceeds, the board must submit to a voter referendum for property tax increases above the rate of inflation.

Approved posting a position for a dual certified teacher in English and social studies, math and science or special education and any other secondary certification.