Levy 2020
Levy 2020 Quick Facts
Levy 2020 Overview
October 2020 CommuniCAT
Levy 2020 At-a-Glance
Sample Ballot
September 2020 CommuniCAT
Superintendent Devine, Waconia Patriot, Oct. 19
Superintendent Devine Operating Levy Presentation
Waconia Public Schools to Ask Voters for Increased School Funding

On November 3, 2020, Waconia Public Schools (ISD 110) residents will vote on a school funding request for an operating levy increase. If approved by voters, the funds would be used to maintain our educational programs, and continue to provide the quality education the community expects and our students deserve.

Read the press release on the School Board’s unanimous decision. Click here 

Learn more about the Special Education cross-subsidy. Click here

 

What is the request?

The ballot question will ask voters to consider approving a levy that would generate $410 of increased revenue per student. The resulting total of nearly $2 million per year would enable the district to maintain our educational programs, and continue to provide the quality education the community expects and our students deserve. If approved, Levy 2020 would have a tax impact of less than $20 per month on a $350,000 home -- which is the average value of a home in the area. CALCULATE TAX IMPACT

Why now?

The state recently changed how it reimburses school districts for special education expenses. While the state and federal governments have never fully reimbursed these expenses - which has a negative impact on districts across the state - the change was particularly devastating for ISD 110. The amount of money ISD 110 must pull from its budget to cover those expenses more than doubled in the past 5 years, resulting in an unanticipated major hit to the budget. 

Cross Subsidy

The result created a perfect storm causing the district’s current financial challenges: an unexpected change in how districts are reimbursed for special education costs, state education funding not keeping pace with inflation, and a strategic decision to draw down reserves rather than eliminate programs in support of the district’s commitment to academic excellence. 

How do we compare?

ISD 110’s current operating levy is lower than most school districts in the area - and would remain below many if the levy request is approved. These voter-approved levies are one way local communities support their schools by providing funding for staff, classroom supplies, and other critical school operating costs. 

Compare
What happens if it passes or does not pass?

IF APPROVED:

  • Continue offering high quality programming
  • Maintain current class sizes
  • Continue offering electives
  • Add programming based on student interests and passions

IF NOT APPROVED:

  • Reduction in programming
  • Larger class sizes
  • Fewer elective and activities offerings
  • Staff reductions
  • Make more than $1 million additional cuts
How can I learn more?

If you have questions, please contact: 

Phone: (952) 442-0611

Email: Levy2020@isd110.org

Superintendent Devine Chamber Presentation