2009-2010 Centralia School District Replacement Levy

In 1977, the Washington State Constitution established the basic eucation of all children as the paramount duty of the state and required it to make ample provision for uniform funding of public shools.

Since then the state has added 14 different programs, such as Highly Capable, to the definition of basic education. As a result, state and federal funding do not fully cover the costs that are being incurred. To continue meeting its educatinal obligations, the state constitution has established local Maintenance and Operations (M&O) Levies as a means of supplemental financing.

Districts must go back to the voter periodically for approval of these levies, and the state allows up to 24% of their operating revenue to be generated through them...In Centralia, we now receive 14% of our operating fund, or about one out of eight dollars from the levy. With the mine closure resulting in a decrease of 4% in overall property value, the rate per $1,000 of assessed valuation is $2.05.

To meet current needs, the Centralia levy is $4,275,000. If Centralia were running a 24% levy it would generate $5,825,540. Because of economic realities in our community, the potential of $1,550,540 is left on the table.

To fully fund General Maintenance and Operations going forward, we are proposing a replacement levy. Collections would amount to $2.14 in 2009 and $2.16 in 2010 per thousand dollars of assessed valuation.

Levies are for learning programs and personnel that fall outside the state funding formula. Centralia School District uses its levy funding for:

• Additional staffing such as music teachers, nurses, counselors, para-educators/instructional assistants, secretaries, technicians, maintenance grounds, and custodial personnel
• Instructional materials, textbooks, and associated technology
• K-12 summer school classes
• Expanded program offerings such as highly capable, music, and art education
• Career and Technical Education equipment and maintenance supplies
• Pupil transportation services
• Athletics and activities
• Utility, data processing, and insurance costs in excess of state assumed increase
• Special Education