News
September 21, 2025
Is your school district running a levy or bond in November?
Voters in the Magic Valley in November will decide on the fate of $33 million in bonds and levies among seven school districts.
Magic Valley residents will head to the polls this November to decide on a crucial issue that directly impacts the future of their children's education: school funding. Seven school districts across the Magic Valley region are asking voters to approve a combined $33 million in bonds and levies. The outcome of these votes will determine the financial stability and resources available to local schools for years to come.
Bonds and levies serve different purposes in funding school districts. Bonds are typically used for large-scale, long-term projects like building new schools, renovating existing facilities, or purchasing significant infrastructure improvements. They require voter approval because they involve borrowing money that will be repaid over an extended period, often through property taxes. Levies, on the other hand, are usually for more immediate, operational needs. These can include funding teacher salaries, purchasing textbooks and learning materials, supporting extracurricular activities, and maintaining current programs. Levies are also funded through property taxes but are typically approved for a shorter duration, requiring renewal by voters periodically.
The $33 million being requested by the seven districts underscores the growing financial pressures facing public education. Increased enrollment, aging infrastructure, and the rising costs of essential resources are all contributing factors. School districts argue that these funds are vital for maintaining quality education, attracting and retaining qualified teachers, and providing students with the resources they need to succeed.
Voters are encouraged to carefully consider the details of each district's proposal. Information sessions and public forums are being held across the region, providing opportunities for residents to learn more about the specific needs of their local schools and how the proposed bonds and levies will address those needs. Understanding the difference between bonds and levies, and how they impact local property taxes, is crucial for making an informed decision at the ballot box. The future of Magic Valley's schools rests in the hands of its voters this November.
Bonds and levies serve different purposes in funding school districts. Bonds are typically used for large-scale, long-term projects like building new schools, renovating existing facilities, or purchasing significant infrastructure improvements. They require voter approval because they involve borrowing money that will be repaid over an extended period, often through property taxes. Levies, on the other hand, are usually for more immediate, operational needs. These can include funding teacher salaries, purchasing textbooks and learning materials, supporting extracurricular activities, and maintaining current programs. Levies are also funded through property taxes but are typically approved for a shorter duration, requiring renewal by voters periodically.
The $33 million being requested by the seven districts underscores the growing financial pressures facing public education. Increased enrollment, aging infrastructure, and the rising costs of essential resources are all contributing factors. School districts argue that these funds are vital for maintaining quality education, attracting and retaining qualified teachers, and providing students with the resources they need to succeed.
Voters are encouraged to carefully consider the details of each district's proposal. Information sessions and public forums are being held across the region, providing opportunities for residents to learn more about the specific needs of their local schools and how the proposed bonds and levies will address those needs. Understanding the difference between bonds and levies, and how they impact local property taxes, is crucial for making an informed decision at the ballot box. The future of Magic Valley's schools rests in the hands of its voters this November.
Category:
Politics