Superintendent's Corner

Ekalaka Public Schools

School Trustee Election, High School Technology Fund Levy, and Elementary General Fund Mill Levy

On April 14, 2023, a mail-in ballot will be sent out to all registered voters in Carter County, MT. The ballot will have the following items to be voted on:

School Trustee Election: Samantha Wright is running for a one (1) year term. Michael Ashbrook and Abbey Bruski are running for a three (3) year term, with one position open.

High School Technology Fund Levy: For the past 15 years the High School Technology Fund Levy has stayed the same. The levy generates $18,000 per year for the advancement of technology within the School District. Over the past 15 years the cost of purchasing and maintaining technology equipment has increased exponentially. The Board of Trustees proposes levying an additional $18,000 per year which equates to approximately .24 mills. The increase in the Levy would be for the purpose of purchasing, renting, repairing, maintaining technological equipment and to meet the district's information technology needs. Passage of this proposal will increase the taxes on a home with the market value of $100,000 by approximately $0.32 and on a home with a market value of $200,000 by approximately $0.64.

Elementary General Fund Mill Levy: The Board of Trustees proposes an increase in local taxes to support the elementary general fund in the amount of $12,031.06 which is approximately .41 mills. The Elementary General Fund is the main operating fund for the school. This fund is for salaries, utilities, and our educational programs to name a few. Passage of this proposal will increase the taxes on a home with the market value of $100,000 by approximately $0.56 and on a home with a market value of $200,000 by approximately $1.11. State support for this General Fund fell short therefore, the Board of Trustees is requesting community support to maintain our high quality staff and programs.

Overall Taxpayer Impact: The Board of Trustees anticipates a reduction in permissive levies which will offset the increases we are asking the voters to approve. Therefore, the District anticipates a decrease in overall taxes for both the High School and Elementary School.