Milwaukee City Wire

Milwaukee voters came out in support of the Milwaukee Public Schools referendum question on Tuesday, April 2, as reported by the district. The approval of the question means that MPS will see various benefits for its students, as highlighted by supporters of the proposal.

According to the district, the approved referendum will ensure that MPS maintains smaller class sizes, keeps essential programs like art, music, physical education, and library services, and retains high-quality teachers and support staff. Additionally, the measure will enable MPS to enhance its offerings by investing in language programs, career and technical education, and mental health support.

In addressing the financial aspect, the referendum allows MPS to raise its revenue limit by $252 million over four years, with an initial increase exceeding the limit by $140 million for the upcoming school year. This adjustment may result in an estimated rise in property taxes, specifically $216 per $100,000 of assessed property value in the first year, with subsequent years seeing a flat tax rate designated for the school district.

The need for the referendum stemmed from a significant budget shortfall projected for the 2025 fiscal year, attributed to the lack of adequate state funding for schools since 2009. With over 90 school referendum questions on the spring election ballot, the approval of MPS's measure stands to benefit every school within the district with a 10.7 percent increase in funding, directly supporting students and teachers.

While the approval of the question is a positive step, the district acknowledges the necessity of finding efficiencies in Central Services to address the remaining budget shortfall. Plans are in place to implement cost-saving measures through streamlining and rightsizing the district, aiming to generate millions in savings.

Notably, Milwaukee Public Schools has already seen improvements in student achievement, partly due to a previous referendum approved in 2020. Data shows a decrease in absentee rates, an increase in graduation rates and test scores, and greater student participation in college and career programs. The district also emphasizes its enhanced capacity to provide mental health support, a crucial resource as students navigate the aftermath of the pandemic.