On March 14th many members of the community will flock to schools to vote on both the maintenance and operations levy and the construction bond. There is voting on new and improved levies every two years, however the construction bond is a new concept. It is important to pay attention to these things because the outcome the voters decide will impact our education and school.

The 2017 levy will continue to support the same things the current levy does, but adds funding for things like buses with 3-point seatbelts, new english class and language arts adoptions, and resources for class size reduction. It will cost $16 million for two years, which is a $1 million increase from our current levy. It needs a 50% voter approval to pass. Levies are crucial in making sure the district can have more than a basic education for students.

Source: Coeur d’Alene School District Website

The construction bond will affect most schools in the Coeur d’Alene District, including our own. Changes to Lake City include updates to the bus loop, additions to the weight room, and eight new classrooms to take place of the portables. A new elementary school in the northwest section of the district will also be built. Coeur d’Alene High School, Lake City, Dalton Elementary, and Lakes Middle School will all get new HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), flooring, plumbing, security, and technology updates.. There is a 66.67% voter approval required to pass the bond. Our schools are in desperate need of renovations.

Overall, there will not be a raise or decline in the taxes we currently pay.

Source: Coeur d’Alene School District Website

Specific changes to all schools and the approximate costs can be found here. Other information about the levy and frequently asked questions are here. Please vote on March 14th to make a difference in our community!