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Board votes to run elementary general‑fund levy, estimates about $1.6 million
Summary
Trustees agreed to place an elementary general-fund levy on the ballot and authorized the administration to run a campaign; estimated levy amount is roughly $1.6 million pending final OPI revenue numbers on March 1.
The board voted to put an elementary general‑fund levy on the ballot after administrators presented budget modeling showing a revenue gap between the elementary and high‑school districts.
Chris explained the elementary district receives roughly $1,500 less per student on the general-fund revenue side and must maintain smaller class sizes by law in lower grades, creating a structural funding shortfall. He said the administration is recommending running the elementary levy at the maximum amount to provide fiscal stability and estimated the total ask at about $1.6 million; final levy amounts will depend on official revenue numbers from OPI on March 1.
Trustees discussed outreach strategy and the timing of levies. One trustee said past elementary levies have passed and urged a clear communications plan explaining how levy dollars benefit students. Another trustee asked whether running elementary and high‑school levies in the same year would create voter fatigue; administrators noted the districts are separate and described a proposed rhythm (run levies in off-legislative years and focus on advocacy during legislative sessions) to reduce voter confusion.
A paraeducator who identified herself as Michelle Phillips spoke during public comment to support district staff; administrators noted ongoing conversations with community partners including the chamber and other civic organizations.
The board voted to place the elementary levy on the ballot; trustees asked administration to return in March with final dollar amounts and a communications plan.
