JEFFERSON TWP — The South Butler School Board on Wednesday night approved the final $35.6 million 2014-15 budget without a property tax increase.

The tax rate will remain at 93.275 mills.

But with the budget, the board eliminated five teaching positions through retirements: A biology teacher, a physical education teacher, a third-grade teacher, a fourth-grade teacher, and a middle school language arts teacher.

Also, a certified school nurse will be replaced with a health room tech aide/nurse’s aide.

District spokesman Jason Davidek said declining student enrollment along with balancing the budget are the primary reasons for staff reductions.

In other action, the board:

• Decided that Foreman Architects of Zelienople will proceed with a safety enhancement plan to the main entrances of all school buildings. The improvements include screening visitors from outside the building instead of in the office and designing a transaction window to allow items to be dropped off to students without a person entering the building. The project is estimated to cost $380,000 to $470,000.

• Agreed to add two security guards. The district currently has two armed guards. It has not been decided if the new hires will be armed.

• Agreed that TRS Roofing of Williamsburg will make roof coating repairs at the Knoch high and middle school building for $465,040. It’s the first major roof project for that building since 1995.

• Learned the high school will become a driver testing center starting this summer. Instructors from the Behind the Wheel Driver Education program will be able to proctor their students’ driving tests there.