Kenosha Unified seeks $19M referendum to address funding gaps and support education

The Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD) held a town hall meeting on January 9, 2025, to discuss the pressing financial challenges facing the district and the potential for an operational referendum. The meeting highlighted the significant funding disparities between KUSD and neighboring districts, which could worsen with the inclusion of recent referendum totals from other areas, such as Madison.

KUSD officials emphasized the urgent need for community support to avoid severe cuts that could negatively impact students' education. The district currently receives $12,731 per student under the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program, which is notably higher than the funding KUSD provides. This financial strain is compounded by the requirement to offer transportation and special education services to private school families, regardless of voucher participation.

During the meeting, it was revealed that over a third of Wisconsin school districts sought operational referendums last year to raise revenue limits. A survey conducted among 4,273 community members indicated that 51.5% would support a $19 million referendum aimed at addressing the district's deficit, retaining staff, and maintaining essential student programs. Without this funding, KUSD may face painful cuts to programs and staff, which could hinder students' long-term success.

The proposed referendum includes $3 million earmarked for enhancing school safety following a safety incident in November. The overall impact on taxpayers will vary based on property values, and residents can use an online estimator to gauge their potential tax impact.

KUSD officials stressed that failure to pass the referendum could lead to significant challenges, including pay freezes and reduced support for high-quality teachers, which are crucial for improving student learning. The district's comprehensive improvement plan aims to ensure that students have access to exceptional educational experiences, but this requires adequate financial resources.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for community members to submit questions, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in the decision-making process. KUSD leaders reiterated that supporting the referendum is not just about funding education; it is about fostering a thriving community for families and businesses alike.