Oak Grove School Board discusses tax levy for competitive teacher salaries and funding challenges

The Oak Grove R-VI School District Board meeting on February 19, 2025, highlighted pressing financial challenges and the need for a tax levy increase to support competitive teacher salaries and maintain educational quality. The board discussed the implications of a proposed tax levy, emphasizing that without additional funding, the district risks losing staff and increasing class sizes, which could detrimentally affect student learning.

Superintendent discussions revealed that the district is facing a significant staffing crisis, with only one or two applicants per teaching position. This shortage has led to resignations, with some teachers leaving for better-paying opportunities in neighboring districts. The board underscored the importance of retaining experienced educators and maintaining small class sizes, which are a hallmark of the Oak Grove educational experience.

The proposed tax levy aims to address these issues by providing necessary funds to raise salaries and attract qualified staff. The superintendent noted that the district has not requested a tax levy increase since the mid-1980s, making this a critical moment for community support. The board plans to educate the public on the differences between the upcoming tax levy and previous bond measures, clarifying that the levy is essential for operational funding rather than capital projects.

In addition to salary concerns, the board discussed the broader context of state funding for education, highlighting Missouri's ranking as the lowest in the nation for the percentage of state funds allocated to education. This lack of support from the state government has compounded the district's financial difficulties, making local funding initiatives even more crucial.

The meeting also touched on legislative issues, including proposed changes to property tax laws and open enrollment policies that could further impact district funding. The board expressed concerns about the potential loss of revenue if neighboring districts implement open enrollment, which could lead to a significant decrease in student enrollment and funding.

As the district prepares for the upcoming tax levy vote in April, the board is committed to informing the community about the necessity of this funding to ensure the continued success of Oak Grove schools. The superintendent emphasized that the primary goal is to keep quality teachers in classrooms and maintain the small class sizes that benefit students. The outcome of the tax levy will play a pivotal role in shaping the district's financial future and its ability to provide quality education to its students.