The West Valley School District is proposing two levies: a Technology Levy and a General Fund Levy. The Technology Levy aims to cover software fees for state testing, repair or replacement of computers needed for these tests, cybersecurity tools, and IT support contracts to protect student and family data. The General Fund Levy will maintain student-to-teacher ratios, support struggling learners, and address facility repairs. Unlike bonds, which will only fund new construction, these levies focus on day to day cost of running a school. The most recent West Valley levy was approved in 2007. West Valley School Board has an informational letter regarding the upcoming West Valley school levies that can be found at https://5il.co/2frn2.
Since 2007, West Valley School District has experienced a massive surge in student enrollment, nearly doubling from 390 to 760 students. However, despite this substantial growth, the last time the voters approved a West Valley School levy was 2007. Currently, only 16.88% of West Valley’s budget is funded by levies, placing it 17th out of 19 public school districts in Flathead County in terms of percentage of West Valley's budget that is funded by voter approved levies.
Moreover, when it comes to spending per pupil, West Valley ranks 15th out of 19 districts. West Valley's spending per pupil is $8,725, which falls below the countywide average of $9,851 for the 2021-2022 school year. Investing in local schools has far-reaching effects beyond individual families. High-quality schools drive economic growth, decrease crime, enhance community connection, and improve the future workforce. By supporting education, communities create a brighter future for all residents.
A community’s investment in its local schools extends far beyond individual families with children. Great schools serve as the cornerstones of thriving communities.
Economic Impact: High-quality schools contribute to a thriving local economy. Well-educated students become skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and professionals who drive economic growth. Businesses often consider the quality of local schools when deciding where to establish themselves.
Future Workforce: Even if you don’t have children, you’ll eventually interact with the next generation. These students will become doctors, police officers, artists, and neighbors. A well-educated workforce benefits everyone by ensuring competent professionals and a skilled labor pool.
Community Cohesion: Schools serve as community hubs. They host events, sports games, performances, and meetings. When schools thrive, they foster a sense of belonging and pride. Residents, whether parents or not, benefit from a vibrant community with engaged citizens.
Long-Term Vision: Communities should think beyond the present. Investing in education ensures a brighter future. When schools receive adequate funding and support, they prepare students to tackle global challenges, innovate, and contribute positively to society.
Caring about local schools isn’t just about individual families—it’s about creating a thriving, interconnected community that benefits everyone. To find out more information about the levies, please visit the information page for the levies here.
Technology Levy
West Valley is seeking your support for an $83,000 Technology Levy to address several key areas:
State Testing Software and Computer Maintenance: Annual software fees for mandated state testing are essential. Additionally, we need to repair or replace computers required for administering these tests. Technology needs directly impact our students’ assessment and progress.
Protecting Student Data and Privacy: Annual cybersecurity subscriptions and personnel are crucial to safeguarding student information. Cyberthreats have increased 827% in just the last year. We take data privacy seriously and strive to maintain robust security measures.
Maintaining Instructional Devices: Annual IT support contracts and technical components are necessary to keep our instructional devices operational. These devices are essential for student learning and high school preparation.
Your vote matters! Let’s empower West Valley students with the tools they need for success in the digital era. For further information, please visit the Levy FAQ page here.
General Fund Levy
West Valley School District is also requesting your support for a $347,000 General Fund levy. This levy serves several critical purposes:
Retaining Classroom Teaching Positions: The general fund levy will allow us to maintain effective student-teacher ratios by keeping essential classroom teaching positions. Several teacher positions will have to be cut without levy funds. These positions are critical for kids.
Support Staff for Struggling Learners: Using funds from this levy, we can keep support staff positions to assist kids who are behind or struggle academically. These professionals provide crucial academic support, ensuring that every student receives the support they need to succeed.
Facility Repairs and Student Safety: Aging facilities pose safety risks. Portions of the general fund levy will be used to repair and replace failing heating units, HVAC controls, and other critical infrastructure. Ensuring a safe environment for our students is our top priority. More information on the General Fund levy can be found on the Levy FAQ page here.
More information on school finance can be found at:
This Montana Office of Public Instruction's document on school finance and school budgets.
The news article, "How Montana Pays for its Public Schools, in Pictures" that can be found here.
Flathead County Superintendent of Schools Statistical Report of School for 2022, which can be found here.