Dear B-ESD Families,
Last week, our school board approved two replacement levy resolutions that will be on the ballot in February. The Educational Programs and Operations Levy is an essential component of our annual budget, constituting 18% of our annual revenues. This is funding that is directed towards paying for programs not funded by the state, including but not limited to, athletics, performing arts (Drama, Band, Choir, Mariachi), all after-school clubs and enrichment programs. This funding also covers areas where state funding has fallen short - primarily staffing costs for student support resources like nurses, counselors, special education teachers and instructional assistants, and facility/operations staff like custodians, grounds and maintenance staff.
The other resolution is for a replacement Capital Projects Levy. This levy generates revenue that can only be spent on the following district needs: facility maintenance, improvements, repairs and renovations, technology (Infrastructure, devices and equipment, subscriptions & network/systems management), and safety and security improvements.
Neither of these levies are new taxes. They would replace levies that were approved four years ago, and that are set to expire in 2026. Please look for more information about both of these levy resolutions in the weeks to come.
Sincerely,
Dr. Chris Pearson, Superintendent
