Levy Materials & FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Take a look at the frequently asked questions below, and if you don't see what you're looking for, submit a question by emailing meadschooldistrict@mead354.org.
What is the difference between a levy and a bond?
Levies are for learning and bonds are for building.
A levy, which typically expires after 2-4 years is used for essential services, programs and activities that are not funded by the state and are critical for providing a well-rounded education.
A bond is used to build, renovate or modernize schools and cannot be used toward educational programs or operations.
Why is a school levy needed?
Levies provide local funding that bridges the gap between what the state and federal governments pay and the actual costs of operating our schools. Levies make up about 11.7% of the district's total operating revenue.
School levies also activate equalization dollars from the state called Local Effort Assistance (LEA). When a levy is passed, the state provides matching dollars to enhance student access to educational enrichments.
The Mead School District has had a levy in place for more than 40 years.
What will this renewal levy cost?
If approved by voters on Feb. 9, the estimated levy tax rate for Mead School District would be $2.00 per $1,000 of assessed valuation. For a $300,000 home, that equals $600 per year or $50 per month.
This levy is not a new tax. It will replace the existing 2018 levy that is set to expire in 2021.
The estimated levy tax rate of $2.00 per $1,000 of assessed valuation is also lower than in 2018 and prior years.
What educational programs and operations does a school levy fund?
The current levy funds many different areas that fall outside of state-funded basic education, including items our community has come to expect of the Mead School District:
- Extra-curricular activities (sports, music and clubs)
- Elective courses, staff for smaller class sizes, career-track and work-based learning opportunities
- Student support (nurses, para educators, counselors and social workers)
- More here...
How does the District decide how levy funds are utilized?
Throughout the past year, the Mead School District has conducted a combination of surveys, focus groups and community engagement meetings with both staff and community members. The feedback gained has directly informed the District's strategic plan and top priorities for continuing to develop a well-rounded education. Levy resources can help fund our community-driven strategic priorities such as:
- Support for our at-risk students
- Access to mental health support for our students
- Increased emphasis on building a talent pool for local industry and beyond through partnerships
- Choice programs at the elementary level
How does this proposed estimated tax rate compare to other school districts in the area?
The Mead School District's total estimated bond and levy tax rate, if the $2.00 levy passes, would be $3.86 (adding in the current bond rate of $1.86). Based on available data, this total bond and levy tax rate is estimated to be the lowest among area school districts should all local districts who have submitted a ballot resolution pass their proposed measures. More information on local school district ballot resolutions can be found here.