School Funding Measures Advance Across Three States

Voters approved Orange City School District’s first new operating levy in 15 years, providing an estimated $7.76 million annually for programs and services; the continuing 5-mill measure passed with 56.5% of the vote and is expected to cost about $175 yearly per $100,000 of property value. In Athens, voters renewed a 1% income tax levy indefinitely, a measure officials say will help address a projected budget shortfall, though district leaders warn financial challenges remain. Spokane voters were also leaning toward renewing an operations levy that supplies about 15% of the school district’s annual budget, replacing one set to expire next year. Separately, Kiel Area School District reported an $8.913 million tax levy for 2026-27, up 10%, while its mill rate remains nearly unchanged as higher property values and reduced state aid shift more funding responsibility to local taxpayers.