Blog Category: Schools

Author's Name: Matt Hersha
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I was disappointed when the Hilliard City School District’s levy failed on March 4, but I was not surprised. Both with a lack of information and the recent union negotiations, the voters had seemingly little motivation to increase their taxes. As a student at Hilliard Davidson, I know why we need the money, but that is not the reason for this article. The reason is, with the money now not available, there are going to be cuts. We, the public, can only predict what these cuts are going to be, but we do have to prepare ourselves to face some difficult circumstances.

First, a little education: A “mill” is equal to $1 on every $1,000 of taxable property value. Every year, many people vote under the assumption mill means millions, and this is not true.

Second, the cuts will probably be delivered in a way that will inspire the voters to approve the levy when it is put back on the ballot in November. Parents must be ready to accept one of the first cuts school districts usually make: busing. Busing may become a thing of the past next school year. It may remain intact, but there is the possibility. Another refinancing maneuver may be “pay to play,” where athletes have to pay money in order to participate in their chosen sport or sports. We must not forget the arts, as they bring in significantly less money than athletics. Yes, it is sad, but when it comes down to the money of athletics versus the value of the arts, the arts will probably go. Students may need to prepare for either (a) their favorite art courses no longer being offered or being reduced, (b) art extracurricular activities being cut back, or (c) art teachers (as well as physical education and music teachers) having to travel between buildings. In other words, each building would not have its own art, music, and physical education teacher.

And let us not forget the new high school, one which needs things such as heat, lighting, running water, and books, items only money can provide.

Clearly, the failed levy gives us a lot of things to ponder.