What is the School Levy? 

The school levy is an additional property tax rate, approved by voters to provide funding beyond what is allowed by a jurisdiction's maximum regular tax rate, ensuring that communities can invest in specific programs and services not covered by the standard tax. 

A simple majority vote is required to renew the School Levy on May 12, 2026.

Did you know?

The school levy is proposed for a four-year period starting July 1, 2027.

The 2027-2030 School Levy will generate approximately $5.5 Million annually to support students, staff and schools.

Revenues generated by the 2027-2030 School Levy will account for approximately 18% of the district's total annual operating budget.

Morgan County Schools collects 70% of the school levy rate permitted, staying below the maximum allowed.

How is the School Levy different from a Bond?

School Levy vs. Bond

Simple way to remember:

  • Levies are generally for learning.

  • Bonds are generally for buildings.

School Levy:

  • A school levy is a local source of funding that helps support the day-to-day operation of the school district. It fills the gap between what the state provides through its funding formula and the actual costs of maintaining quality programs, staffing, and services for students.

  • Levies are usually short-term (2–5 years) and must be renewed by voters when they expire.

  • A levy is collected through property taxes at a voter-approved rate.

Bond:

  • A bond is more like a mortgage for big projects.

  • Bonds fund major construction and renovations—building new schools, fixing roofs, updating heating/cooling systems, modernizing classrooms, and improving safety/security.

  • Bonds are long-term (often 15–30 years) and are paid back over time, again through property taxes.

How Will This Impact My Taxes?

Levy Rate Proposal (Per $100 Assessed Value)

The proposed additional levy rates are:

  • Class I Property: 16.08¢

  • Class II Property: 32.16¢

  • Class III: 64.32¢

  • Class IV: 64.32¢

Example tax impact showing $150k home equals $289.44 yearly tax

What will the funds support?

  • To support critical education programs.

  • To provide for security, operations and the maintenance of facilities.

  • To provide capital improvements/repairs.

  • To improve access to technology through the purchase of hardware, software and infrastructure.

  • To provide instructional materials.

  • To support Morgan County Public Library and Paw Paw Public Library.

  • To continue the local salary schedule and benefits in order to employ and retain highly qualified personnel.