In order to maintain and continue to advance our tradition of educational excellence, we need your help. In mid-September, we will mail all district residents a survey with questions related to an …
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In order to maintain and continue to advance our tradition of educational excellence, we need your help. In mid-September, we will mail all district residents a survey with questions related to an upcoming February 2024 referendum. By completing the survey (online or paper/pencil) you will help the Board of Education determine the specific details to be included on the February ballot. Your voice matters - please take time to complete the survey.
In a nutshell, the survey describes two different types of referendum questions that are both under consideration for the February referendum as explained below:
Unlike 84% of other districts in the state, the School District of River Falls has not yet pursued this type of referendum in the past 25 years. The state created the current school funding policy in 1993 and today, that antiquated funding formula no longer works for River Falls causing us to have very low revenue compared to most other school districts in the state. Because of this funding formula, which does not keep pace with inflationary expenses, the district is projecting the annual budget deficit will grow to more than $3 million over the next three years.
This is the type of referendum River Falls voters supported in 2018 to update aging facility mechanical and infrastructure systems, add elementary classrooms, improve some athletic facilities, and update technology.
We have some facility needs that were not financed in previous referendums and are too costly for the district to accomplish with our regular annual budget. The survey will explain some of these potential facility options and seek your opinion on each.
Lastly, after reviewing the community survey response data, in early December, the School Board will take official action to announce the specific details of the February 2024 referendum. Your survey responses will help guide the Board in the process of determining what the "ask" will be in February.
Please take time to complete the survey which will be mailed to you in mid-September. Thank you.
