Fall 2026 Operating Levy For Learning
Why We Need Help
Running a school costs money — teachers, buses, heat, books, all of it. The state hasn't been giving Benson enough money to keep up with rising costs. At the same time, fewer kids are enrolling, and new state rules keep adding costs without extra money to pay for them.
Because of this, the district has already had to make cuts:
- More than $1 million cut from the budget over the past three years
- $300,000 of that was cut just for this school year (2026-27)
- If nothing changes, the district's savings will run out fast — which means even more cuts ahead
What's Being Asked
The school board voted, all together, to let voters decide on a levy question this November.
Election Day is November 3 and Early Voting Begins September 18. Learn more about voting here.
The Levy for Learning Request:
- Would add $700 more per student, every year
- Right now the district gets $710.70 per student — with the levy, that would jump to $1,410.70
- For most homeowners, the tax impact is about $15/month
What Benson Schools Is Doing Well
Even with a tight budget, there's a lot to be proud of in Benson Public Schools:
- High schoolers score above the state average in math
- Students can earn up to 55 college credits before they even graduate
- Elementary teachers get extra training to help kids learn to read
- Discovery Kids provides care for children starting at 6 weeks old through toddler, preschool and up to 6th grade
Why It Matters
Good schools don't just help kids — they help the whole town. Businesses want workers who went to good schools. Families want to live where the schools are strong.
