Approximately 80 percent of the levy funds would be dedicated to reduce class size consistent with the level of state funding the school district currently receives. Remaining funds would replace aging technology and software, and provide training for students and staff according to the district s five-year technology plan. If this measure is not approved, local schools anticipate higher class sizes students will continue to use eight to ten year old technology equipment. Despite efforts by schools to reallocate re-sources to keep class sizes manageable, local growth continues to bring additional students to our classrooms. In primary grades, where children are developing basic skills in reading, writing and mathematics, the average class size is 25 students.
Budgets are tight.
Protecting class size was the priority when the school district cut five percent of its operating budget last year. Schools expect larger class sizes and fewer program offerings beginning next September. Current student-teacher classroom ratios would drop by approximately three students per class in elementary grades and by one student per class in secondary grades if state school funding is not reduced and if taxes are collected at the normal rate. Approximately 80 percent of Local Option funds would be used to reduce class size. Improve educational technology by replacing eight to ten year old equipment and providing technology training for students and staff according to the district s five-year technology plan.