Contact: Valerie Burke
Dir. of Community Education Services
valburke@edina.k12.mn.us

Media Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Edina School Board Approves Resolution to Put Referendum
Levy on Nov. 8 Ballot

Edina, Minn., July 18, 2011 – The Edina School Board approved a resolution at its July 18 meeting to place a referendum levy on the upcoming Nov. 8 election ballot.  The levy seeks to renew the $400 per pupil portion of the school district’s existing referendum revenue for 10 years, and to raise approximately $4.5 million of revenue to advance learning through technology.

The first ballot question regarding revenue renewal asks voters to extend an existing property tax referendum that is scheduled to expire in 2012.  The second question asks voters to approve a property tax increase to cover technology costs that would include hardware, software, infrastructure, staffing and training.

“We are living in educational times that are filled with challenges and opportunities and the referendum questions will help in both arenas,” said Superintendent Ric Dressen.  “The additional funding would ease our funding challenges and allow us to advance the learning opportunities that are available through technology.  Of the funds that will be generated by this referendum, 100 percent will remain in our district.”

The current technology levy expires in 2012 and was for hardware only.  By comparison, Edina receives the least amount of technology funding per pupil when compared to six neighboring suburban districts.  Edina currently spends $122 per pupil on technology, while Hopkins is at $719 per pupil for technology, Minnetonka at $655, Eden Prairie at $637 and Wayzata at $545.

Over the past five years, to maximize its financial resources the Edina School District has made budget adjustments totaling approximately 8 percent of the general fund budget, with minimal impact to classes and educational programs.  In addition, state funding challenges continue to impact the ability to provide educational programs and services.

If the referendum is unsuccessful, the district would need to make annual budget adjustments totaling over $4 million, which is approximately 5 percent of the district’s general fund budget.  “This would increase class sizes, reduce program and course offerings and stall implementation of the district’s technology plan,” said Dressen.  “This local referendum is necessary to maintain the quality of education in Edina and to maintain our commitment to excellence.”

About Edina Public Schools
Edina Public Schools has six elementary schools (K-5), two middle schools (6-9), and one senior high (10-12).  As Independent School District No. 273, it serves a large portion of Edina, a first tier Minneapolis suburb comprised of approximately 47,000 people.  The Edina school system – with 600 teachers and 7,800 students – is consistently ranked as one of the best in the nation and is known for its educational excellence, with over 90 percent of high school seniors going on to college.  Its web site is at www.edina.k12.mn.us