THE BRIGHT SIDE
More than 80 school districts had referendums on the ballot earlier this month, totaling hundreds of millions of dollars.
Many passed, but many were also voted down. A majority of the largest ones did not pass, the results show. Many would have addressed budget deficits and building improvements, leaving those school districts with some uncertainty going forward.
Parents and school district leaders in Elkhorn are expressing deep concern over potential cuts and school consolidations following a failed referendum earlier this month. The referendum aimed to secure $4 million over four years, at an additional cost of $13 per month to the average taxpayer, but was rejected by voters. With the failed referendum, many families will have kids in four different schools, which will add to the chaos of life. With the referendum’s failure, the district is faced with the task of coming up with budget cuts. The superintendent will also continue to advocate for increased state funding to better align with inflation and the needs of the district.
Shortly, he will be forming a legislative council to serve as an advocacy arm for the schools. The proposed changes would alter the education model from a neighborhood school model to a center school model. That means that K-5 students would no longer attend their closest schools, instead being spread across different buildings by grade level. Grades KG-1 would attend Jackson Elementary. Grades 2-3 would attend West Side Elementary. Grades 4-5 would attend Tibbets Elementary. Many are stepping up and launching fundraising campaigns to help bridge the gap for the needed funds. While they may not raise the full $4 million needed, they are hopeful to prevent significant disruptions to students’ learning environments.
With tens of thousands of dollars already raised, the call for legislative change resonates throughout the community, along with their votes to not put the students first. As Elkhorn continues its fight to maintain its educational integrity, the outcome of its efforts may change the future of school funding in Wisconsin.
