School Funding

Through levy and bond issues. Both are approved by the voters. The total amount approved is then prorated out to property owners per each $1,000 of their assessed property values. Once approved, levy and bond amounts cannot be increased. When community property values increase, the amount or rate paid per $1,000 decreases.

Yes, but some get more than others. An exception to the formula was allowed and some districts’ teacher salary schedules were “grandfathered” at a higher percentage of the adopted state salary schedule.

The Basic Education Act of 1977 set a formula for sending state funds to school districts. The basic formula gives each district a certain dollar amount for each full time equivalent (FTE) student - each student attending school all day. For each student who needs extra services, such as special education programs, gifted education, or bilingual education, there are state and federal formulas for supplemental support. Districts that employ teachers with advanced degrees get extra funds for salaries. Districts with fewer than 300 students also receive extra money.

By law, maintenance and operations (M&O) or program levies can only be proposed for a maximum of four years. Public school districts may choose to run levy ballots for one, two, three or four years. However, after the allotted number of years, the levy expires. Districts return to their voters to ask for a replacement or renewal, of levy dollar support. Generally, the levy you are voting on simply replaces one that is about to expire.

The amount and program designation varies from district to district depending on the needs of the students. Typically, federal dollars pay for a percentage of vocational programs, special education, American Indian education, disability programs, food service programs and special grants.