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Referendum Details

student smiling working at a computer with a logo with the text %22Pathway so Progress, Tools for Success, Access for All%22 and the text %22Capital Projects Levy for Technology Vote Tuesday, November 5, 2024%22

The Ballot Question

School District Question 

Approval of Capital Project Levy for Technology

The board of Independent School District No. 286 (Brooklyn Center), Minnesota has proposed a capital project levy authorization in the maximum amount of 4.95% times the net tax capacity of the School District. The proposed capital project levy authorization will raise approximately $700,000 for taxes first levied in 2024, payable in 2025, and will be authorized for ten (10) years. The estimated total cost of the projects to be funded over that time period is approximately $7,000,000. The proposed authorization will provide funds for school district technology, including the acquisition, installation, replacement, support and maintenance of software, software licenses, improved technology equipment and infrastructure, technology systems related to safety and security, and to pay the costs of technology related personnel and training.
 

YES

NO

Shall the capital project levy authorization proposed by the board of Independent School District No. 286 (Brooklyn Center), Minnesota be approved?

 

BY VOTING “YES” ON THIS BALLOT QUESTION, YOU ARE VOTING FOR A PROPERTY TAX INCREASE

The ballot: Explained

Capital project: Different from an operating levy, a capital projects levy can only be used for specific projects, such as upgrades to facilities, technology and security projects.

4.95% times the net tax capacity: The state calculates the taxes  based on the kind of property (e.g. family home, commercial/industrial, agricultural, etc.). The impact to homeowners is lower than commercial/industrial properties, thus lessening the burden on homeowners.

$7,000,000 is the total amount after 10 years. The levy would raise approximately $700,000 per year for BCCS.

Software includes instructional resources and operational platforms to run the district (e.g. payroll, student information, Google Classroom, etc.)

Improved technology equipment: Replacing outdated equipment such as iPads, Chromebooks, and laptops, as well as wireless networks and cabling/fiber.

Updating security systems (e.g., visitor entry software, cybersecurity, cameras, etc.) to help protect students, staff and families

Technology support personnel, training for teachers and staff on effectively using instructional technology.

two students working at a table with a notebook and laptop
Group of kindergarten students working on their ipads and sitting on a rug

Levy Consequences

What happens if the levy passes?

The BCCS capital projects levy would allow the district to invest in technology infrastructure and hands-on, technical learning experiences that prepare students for life after graduation in an ever-changing world.

Specifically, BCCS would use these funds to:

  • Hire and train high-quality staff in support of prek-grade 12 students 

  • Update technology labs and technical training programs to better provide hands-on learning experiences for students interested in trades and other technical fields

  • Replace broken and outdated technology devices needed for today’s k-12 instruction 

  • Build out a robust catalog of courses for high school students to engage in classes and career pathways that best fit their needs and interests

  • Enhance the physical technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, and physical security systems to enhance safety and be better prepared for potential issues

What happens if the levy does not pass?

If the district’s proposed capital projects levy is not approved, the district will need to make some tough decisions and changes in operations. While nothing is confirmed at this time, the district would need to consider the following options:

  • Limiting students’ instructional access to technology which could put them at a disadvantage compared to other schools

  • Reducing the district’s one-to-one student device program that has been in place since 2020

  • Limiting access to and use of technology software and programming, like specific grade level instructional subscriptions or technology related extracurricular activities

  • Decreasing access and opportunities for students to receive technical trainings as part of their preparation for careers in trades and technical fields

  • Reducing support and training for teachers and staff to effectively use digital curriculum and modern instructional tools