Article #1 iin a Series >>>>> Considerations in Voting For or Against the Proposed MPS Referendum Requests

The following is given by officials at the Minneapolis Public Schools

for consideration by voters as they are asked to approve a referendum

November 2018.  In the days to come, look for my recommendation

as to whether voters should approve the additional tax levy that will

come from voting affirmatively on the referendum.

 

An investment in our students and schools

 

A solid financial foundation is essential for making investments in

our students and addressing the rising costs of public education. From

cutting costs, to a full-scale review of staffing, program and services,

to turning to taxpayers for additional support, MPS is working on every

level, every day to create a strong, sustainable, successful school district

for its community.

 

The 2018 MPS Strong Referendum is just one part of that work. If

passed, the referendum would give Minneapolis Public Schools access

to $30 million in additional revenue. The funds will be used across the

district to improve student achievement and well-being through equitable

investments in literacy, social emotional learning, and support services. 

The new revenue sources will also help avoid future budget cuts and

reductions in services to students across Minneapolis.

Minneapolis Public Schools will hold a two-question, $30 million

referendum on November 6, 2018, to:

1)  Increase the Current Operating Referendum Levy: The operating

levy provides funding for general funds for all types of school

operations – such as staff salaries and benefits, textbooks, office

supplies, and services for English Language Learners. Under

Minnesota law, Minneapolis Public Schools can ask voters for up

to a certain amount per student. This question proposes to increase

the levy to its maximum allowable amount, meaning Minneapolis

Public Schools can't ask voters for future increases. 

 

2)  Establish a Capital Projects (Technology) Levy: The tech levy would

raise revenue for the regular maintenance and upgrades to Minneapolis

Public Schools' technology systems. By shifting these existing costs to

a new revenue source, MPS can make additional funds available for

general operating expenses. No new technology is proposed. 

 

Minneapolis voters have the choice to invest an additional $30 million

annually in our students.  Without these investments, our schools and

students will experience additional staffing, program and service reductions. 

We risk our ability to invest in priority areas and build a sustainable school

district that reflects the shared values of our community. Annual concerns

about funding will continue, making it difficult to attract and keep both

new students and staff.