District 49 Proposes Ballot Measure to Increase Teacher Pay
COLORADO SPRINGS – In an effort to attract and retain quality teachers, District 49 is considering a proposed ballot measure to increase teacher pay through a mill levy override. At a board meeting on Wednesday, the district discussed finalizing the drafting of the measure, which would allow for a significant pay raise for teachers.
If approved, the measure would appear on November’s ballot and would involve increasing property taxes by nearly ten million dollars. The funds generated from the mill levy override would be allocated directly towards increasing teacher salaries at District 49. With this additional funding, the district hopes to provide teachers with a 7 percent raise annually for the next seven years.
For residents within District 49, the impact of the mill levy override would result in a relatively small increase in property taxes. On average, homeowners would see an additional $4 for every $100,000 in property value, amounting to less than a $20 monthly increase. Currently, homeowners pay approximately $1,500 annually or $130 monthly in property taxes for a home valued at $500,000.
District 49 recognizes the importance of passing this mill levy override to ensure that teacher pay remains competitive with neighboring districts. They acknowledge that in the bidding war for teacher talent, they are outmatched and outspent due to higher property values in other areas. By providing a meaningful way to fund increased salaries, District 49 aims to attract and retain highly qualified teachers who play a critical role in shaping the future of their students.
The district is encouraging public participation and feedback on the proposed measure, offering an opportunity for comment at the board meeting held at the Creekside Success Center’s Peakview Hall. The meeting will begin at 6:30 PM tonight, providing residents the chance to voice their opinions on the matter.
As District 49 makes efforts to address the disparity in teacher salaries and ensure their teachers are adequately compensated, they are taking important steps towards providing a high-quality education for their students. The mill levy override would not only benefit teachers but also contribute to creating an environment conducive to academic growth and success.
As the community comes together to discuss this proposed measure, the hope is that a consensus will be reached, resulting in increased teacher pay and improved educational opportunities for the students of District 49.
