The Appleton Area School District is set to receive a significant boost in state funding, with an additional $10.3 million in aid, bringing the total to approximately $14.9 million. This increase comes as part of the state budget's allocation for education, which was raised during the last biennium.
As a result of this funding, the district anticipates a decrease in the overall property tax levy by $2.3 million, bringing it down to $7.8 million. This adjustment reflects the balancing act between state aid and property taxes—when one rises, the other typically falls.
In addition to the general funding, the levy for private school vouchers is also expected to increase, although the district does not retain any of this aid; it is passed directly from taxpayers to private schools. Furthermore, the proposed levy for future debt repayment stands at $14.8 million, which includes $12.8 million for current payments and $2 million earmarked for future obligations.
The financial framework for the district's operations begins with a revenue limit of $174.2 million. After accounting for an estimated $116 million in equalization aid, which includes personal property and computer aid, the district can levy $52.8 million, all within the established revenue limit.
This budget presentation highlights the ongoing efforts to balance funding sources while ensuring financial stability for the Appleton Area School District.