Frequently Asked Questions ~Compiled by Levy Committee
Why do we need a $525,000 Levy?
The state of Idaho continues to under fund education, leaving schools without the needed funds to meet educational requirements. This Levy replaces last years, this is not an additional Levy and supplements our income to maintain our current operations and covers the state’s shortfall for basic operation, special education, advanced placement courses, extra-curricular activities such as FFA, BPA, athletics, and much more.
This Levy will show on your December 2017-2018 tax assessment bills.
How much will it cost me on my taxes?
It will cost $3.95 per thousand ($0.21 less than last year) of the assessed value of your property, minus the homeowner’s exemption. The school board and administration have adjusted the budget to reduce the levy amount by $20,000. For more information on how to figure your homeowner exemption visit: http://tax.idaho.gov/i-1051.cfm
Are we going to need a supplemental Levy every year?
YES, this is an ANNUAL replacement Levy and as long as the State of Idaho continues its current form of funding for public education, we will need a supplemental Levy. Continued support from our community is vital, State and Federal funding is unstable and inadequate.
Our school is vital to the community of Riggins. Our community needs families to survive and families need and want a good quality school.
What if the Levy doesn’t pass?
The school board and administration will be forced to make even more difficult cuts that will drastically affect our quality of education,
Our students, our staff, our facilities, and our community. They feel they have no extras to cut; therefore more cuts will be made to programs
And staff which will overall affect the quality of our schools.
What do we want in our schools?
We desire to maintain a safe environment and a quality of education to advance opportunities for both college preparatory, vocational pursuits, and continue to enhance the curriculum and technology with professional development for our staff so they can have the necessary tools to give every student the opportunity to excel. The district took on the responsibility of providing Preschool services to our families, due to the closure of Head Start, and did so by only utilizing current staff. Our district feels strongly that children who attend a high-quality early childhood education program, make cognitive and social gains that prepare them to start school. State and federal moneys cannot be used to fund preschool, at this time. Many of our students that go on to college are well prepared and most with numerous dual credits on their transcripts and receive substantial scholarships. We want to continue extra-curricular activities, which plays a major role in a student’s ability to work as a team player as well as accept defeat and victory in good sportsmanship. We have great & talented kids in our schools that deserve the best we can give them, our back to back State Titles are just icing on the cake! Preparing students for a global workplace with 21st century communication and critical thinking skills is crucial. Technology plays a huge role in this and is VERY underfunded. It is nearly impossible for districts to maintain current equipment and keep up with the ever-changing world of technology with the money provided by the state.
How does the Levy benefit me as a taxpayer?
Having a quality school in our area brings families to the area and promotes business and industry. These businesses yield the jobs needed to sustain our community. Property owners and renters are both stakeholders in our schools and have voting privileges. Keeping a thriving community keeps our properties value. Also keeps our stores, restaurants, gas stations, financial institutions, and other businesses open.