The Saint Paul Public Schools levy that was passed by voters in 2006 expires at the end of the 2012/2013 school year. Renewing this levy is crucial to the future of Saint Paul. Saint Paul’s future economic stability and quality of life depend on the quality of education we provide our kids today. SPPS understands this connection, and strives, in the face of budget cuts, to ensure that our kids are
prepared to succeed in locally and in the world. This Nov. 6th, the District is asking voters to renew the $30M levy that was passed in 2006. In addition, the District is also asking for a $9M increase to the renewal. The extra revenue generated from the levy will allow the district to make a comprehensive eight year investment in using technology in our classrooms. The 2012 levy referendum at a glance:
• 75% ($30M) of the levy will continue funding for:
- Pre-Kindergarten, commonly referred to as 4-year-old-kindergarten
- All-day kindergarten
- Special Education
- Reduced class sizes in K-12 math and science classes.
• 25% ($9M) of the levy will accelerate our investment in classroom technology
Here’s how the current levy request breaks down:
$30M is strictly to maintain and renew funding for critical services*
$9M additional funding for technology-integrated teaching and learning**
______________
$39M for SPPS kids
Here’s how it will affect homeowners in $ and ¢:
• Of the $39M levy request, $30M is a renewal and will not increase your taxes.
• Only the additional $9M requested will affect your taxes. A median house valued at $150,000 will see an annual increase of only $5.65 a month. .........
Whether you are a homeowner, renter, parent, guardian or send your children to private schools, the success of Saint Paul's public schools and kids affects all of us as Saint Paul residents. If the current levy referendum is not renewed by Voting Yes for St. Paul Kids on November 6th 2012, the District will:
• Lose funding for all-day kindergarten currently available in all 42 elementary schools.
• Lose funding for Early Childhood Family Education serving 5,225 children and 5,076 parents in 2011.
• Be forced to lay off more than 400 teachers.
• Increase class sizes in secondary math and science courses.
• Cut online learning opportunities. Our kids are our future: 39,000+ are depending on our YES vote this Nov. 6. SPPS is the second largest district in the state and yet, its levy remains one of the lowest in Minnesota—even with this current referendum. Paul kids by voting YES! Have questions? Don't hesitate to call us at 651-291-5107. You can also reach our campaign manager at 651-246-1089. Thank you for your support!
