The Plan
Mitigating changes to class sizes, staffing and services for our schools
Utilizing remaining COVID-relief aid
At the onset of the pandemic, Congress set aside emergency resources for schools by creating the Elementary and Secondary School Relief (ESSER) Fund. Like most school districts in Minnesota and across the U.S., Marshall Public Schools was awarded federal aid. The district will utilize its remaining funds held in reserve to help cover 2022-2023 expenses, but will have little to no aid to spend in the years following.
Maintaining a balanced and responsible budget while advocating for increased state funding for public schools
Our district remains committed to achieving a fully balanced budget that spends within our means. Because we owe our students the best possible support, we will continue to urge state leaders and legislators to secure annual increases in state funding for public schools that covers the rising costs of education.
Engaging residents about investments in our schools
In Novemeber 2022, the district proposed a reinstatement of its past operating levy. The $675 per-pupil levy would have protected against budget cuts and impacts to class sizes and student services. Voters ultimately rejected the levy.
We know residents in our district care deeply about our schools. Just a few years ago, voters approved a bond referendum which made critical investments in our facilities and built a new elementary school to serve our youngest students. Going forward, the district will seek input directly from residents to help inform new investments in our schools.
