In a bid to upgrade the technological infrastructure of its schools, the Cascade Public School district is set to propose a technology levy to voters. This move aims to bridge the existing gap in digital resources, enabling students to access the latest tools and educational software.
The proposed levy, which has garnered significant attention, is a response to the ever-evolving educational landscape. As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, schools are under increasing pressure to provide students with the skills and resources necessary to compete in an increasingly digital economy.
The Need for a Technology Levy
The Cascade Public School district is facing a significant funding gap, which has necessitated the need for a technology levy. According to the library’s Master Plan and budget projections, the district is struggling to maintain its operations.
Library’s Master Plan and Budget Projections
The library’s Master Plan outlines its operational needs, including personnel costs and tax revenue increases. Currently, the district is operating on a budget of $1.5 million, which is insufficient to meet its operational needs. The Master Plan projects a deficit of $59,969 in the current budget year.
To address this funding gap, the district is seeking to increase its budget to $2.75 million. This increase is necessary to maintain the library’s operations and provide expanded services to the community.
Personnel Costs and Tax Revenue Increase
Personnel costs have increased by $84,332, and tax revenue has increased by $19,677, according to the library’s data. These increases are insufficient to meet the district’s operational needs, highlighting the need for a technology levy.
The Impact of Insufficient Funding
The impact of insufficient funding is far-reaching, affecting not only the library’s operations but also the community it serves. If the funding gap is not addressed, the district may be forced to reduce its services, leading to negative consequences for the community.
Projected Deficit and Consequences for Library Operations
The projected deficit of $59,969 will have significant consequences for library operations. The district may be forced to reduce its staff, leading to reduced services and hours of operation. This, in turn, will negatively impact the community, particularly students and low-income families who rely on the library for access to information and resources.
The Proposed Mill Levy
The proposed mill levy is a critical component of the district’s plan to address its funding gap. The levy is structured to provide a dedicated source of funding for the library’s operations and expanded services.
Structure and Categorization of the Levy
The levy is divided into three categories: City Mill Levy, Rural Mill Levy, and County Mill Levy. Each category has a specific purpose and will be assessed on different properties.
The City Mill Levy will be assessed on City of Great Falls properties, while the Rural Mill Levy will be assessed on Cascade County properties outside of the City of Great Falls. The County Mill Levy will be assessed on all Cascade County properties.
Taxes and Assessment on Properties
The levy will be funded through taxes assessed on properties within the district. The taxes will be used to support the library’s operations and expanded services, including digital resources, bookmobile services, and safety specialists.
The Library’s Master Plan and Expanded Services
The library’s Master Plan outlines its vision for expanded services, including increased staff, extended hours of operation, and improved resources for patrons.
Expanded Services
The library plans to expand its services to include:
- Expanded digital resources for all patrons
- Expanded access to resources for all students
- College and Adult Readiness Program for teens
- Expanded digital resources for all patrons
- Expanded adult educational and recreational programming
- Expanded Homebound Program
- Improved access to Internet and Technology training
- Expanded support for businesses and entrepreneurs
- Expanded support for job seekers
- Audio/Video Recording resources for podcasting, Internet videos (YouTube & TikTok), and oral histories
- MakerSpace/3-D printing resources for DIY
These expanded services will provide significant benefits to the community, including improved access to information, resources, and opportunities for education and recreation.
Collaboration and Community Involvement
The Great Falls Library Board has shared plans for a proposed mill levy with city commissioners, highlighting the importance of community involvement and collaboration.
The Belt Public Library and Wedsworth Memorial Library in Cascade are collaborating with the Great Falls Public Library, noting that they are dealing with the same set of challenges.
Partnership with Belt Public Library and Wedsworth Memorial Library
Addressing shared challenges and goals, the three libraries are working together to address the needs of their patrons.
The partnership aims to provide expanded digital resources, access to resources for all students, and a range of programs and services that benefit the community.
The Role of the City Commission and Voter Decision
The City Commission is aware of the Library Trustees’ funding request and has prioritized Public Safety in their stated Commission Goals since 2008.
The Commission feels that voters should be given the opportunity to voice their support in two needed areas of the City budget: Public Safety and the Library.
Ultimately, the voter has the choice and final say on funding the Public Safety levy and/or bond.
Implications and Next Steps
The proposed mill levy has significant implications for the future of the Great Falls Public Library and the community it serves.
The Future of the Great Falls Public Library
If the levy is approved, the library will be able to expand its services and programs, including digital resources, access to resources for all students, and a range of programs and services that benefit the community.
If the levy is not approved, the library may be forced to reduce its services and programs, potentially impacting the community it serves.
The Bigger Picture: Funding Priorities and Community Needs
The proposed mill levy is just one part of the larger discussion about funding priorities and community needs in Great Falls.
Ultimately, the decision will be up to the voters, who will have to weigh the competing demands of Public Safety and the Library.
Conclusion
As we conclude our exploration of the Cascade Public School district’s push for a technology levy, it’s clear that the issue at hand is multifaceted and far-reaching. The district’s request for a levy is centered around its desire to upgrade its technology infrastructure, improve digital learning experiences, and enhance student outcomes. By investing in modern technology, educators aim to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
However, the significance of this issue extends beyond the confines of the school district. The success or failure of this levy will have a ripple effect on the broader community, influencing the quality of education and economic prospects for future generations. As technology continues to shape the future of work and learning, the Cascade Public School district’s decision to invest in its technology infrastructure will send a powerful message about its commitment to innovation and student success. The implications of this decision will be felt for years to come, shaping the trajectory of local education and economic development.
As the community weighs the merits of the technology levy, we are reminded of the pivotal role that education plays in shaping the future of our society. By investing in the education of our children, we are not only ensuring their individual success but also contributing to the prosperity and well-being of our community as a whole. As the Cascade Public School district seeks to upgrade its technology infrastructure, it is not merely asking for a financial investment; it is asking us to join it in shaping the future of education and the lives of its students.