KOKOMO, Ind. — Voters in Kokomo have more than candidates to consider in this year's election.
The Kokomo School Corporation is asking for approval of a $6.1 million referendum.
The referendum, if approved, cannot pay for any buildings or facilities. It calls for directing $4 million - the largest chunk of the proposal - to paying, recruiting and retaining staff. And not just teachers, but all staff, from bus drivers to administrators.
$1.1 million would be dedicated to enhanced learning opportunities and academic programs for students, from elementary literacy to college and career-prep programs in high school. Another million is for upgrading technology infrastructure and software programs.
"We know strong schools build strong communities. the future of this community is our students. we have great support in our community, and we're confident that this request of our community to invest in our students will come through," said Dr. Michael Sargent, superintendent of Kokomo Schools.
Homeowners would pay an average 31% more in the portion of their property taxes that goes to schools, about $8 dollars per month on average.
"We're doing our best educate our community, certainly hope that they are aware of it, understand the impact that this will make and the importance of their support, Sargent said.
The referendum covers the next 8 years.
The school corporation posted information about the referendum on their website.