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Why is the school board asking voters to approve a 1-mill increase in ad valorem taxes?

The national teacher shortage and an alarming increase in teacher resignations and retirements have created more than 400 unfilled teacher positions. Experienced, successful teachers earn salaries only slightly larger than first-year teachers. Because of this, many teachers are moving on to higher paying, less stressful careers. The 1-mill increase is primarily designed to retain experienced teachers, compensate other staff (such as security personnel and maintenance workers) and meet other operational needs, particularly in art, music and athletics. Voter approval is needed to increase funding.