St. Louis-area schools seek $300 million in local funding amid state budget cuts

Missouri public schools in the St. Louis region are facing a $190 million funding shortfall for the current school year, with state officials projecting a further $300 million decrease next year. This drop in state support has forced nine local school districts to place measures on the November ballot to generate millions in new revenue.

The state budget cuts occurred because education officials did not request additional money to cover rising costs. District leaders warn that relying on savings funds to cover the gap is not a sustainable long-term strategy. In response, many districts are asking voters to increase property taxes or approve bond measures to bridge the financial divide between local and state revenue.

Webster Groves and Parkway School Districts are both seeking operating tax increases. Webster Groves’ Proposition W proposes a 65-cent levy increase to address a $5 million deficit for the current year. The district estimates that this measure would add approximately $494 to the annual property tax bill for a homeowner with a $400,000 residence. Parkway’s Proposition P seeks a 46-cent increase, marking the district’s first tax hike in two decades. This move aims to offset a projected $75 million deficit over the next ten years, with an estimated cost of $364 per year for a similar home.

Normandy Schools Collaborative, designated as financially stressed by state officials earlier this month, is presenting two options: Proposition N for a 55-cent operating tax increase and a $40 million bond for capital improvements. Ritenour School District is asking voters to approve a $42 million bond for security upgrades and maintenance of schools that are 55 years old. Superintendent Chris Kilbride stated the goal is to maintain respectful learning spaces and avoid larger financial issues in the future.

Francis Howell School District in St. Charles County is seeking approval for a $150 million bond and a tax levy transfer. These measures aim to address a $2.6 million funding loss this year and cover growing teacher salary costs. Amelia Martin, a parent and co-chair of a local political action committee, argued that failing to pass the measures would make it difficult to recruit and retain quality educators.

The district’s ballot measures follow scrutiny from State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick, who claimed the district mishandled funds during the construction of Francis Howell North High School. District leadership pushed back against the audit findings, but the issue remains a point of discussion for residents. Stephanie Rittgers, a parent and committee member, noted that while stewardship is important, underfunding ultimately hurts students.

Fort Zumwalt School District is also on the ballot with a $90 million bond measure for security and building upgrades. Superintendent Henry St. Pierre said the district had to shift its campaign from April to November due to new state legislation. The bond will not increase taxes and will fund projects such as storm shelters and playground repairs. Voters in both St. Louis and St. Charles counties must approve 50% or more of the votes cast for these measures to pass.