General Fund Levy Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q:    What will this levy fund?

The general levy funds close to 1/4 of all educational and support programs in the district, including 88 teachers and support staff, lower student-to-teacher ratios than the state funds, the seven period day at the high school, enhanced special education programs, programs for English-language learners, most of the athletic and sports programs, and general custodial service and maintenance of our buildings. 

Q:    Does the levy replace an existing levy?

This levy is a renewal of the existing General Fund Levy expires at the end of 2010.

Q:    What is the cost? 

This amount of this 4-year levy is dependent upon state legislative action in place to raise levy lids, but it will not exceed an authorization of $12,438,000 in 2011 and will be adjusted annually until 2014. 

The estimated tax rate in 2011 for this levy would be approximately $1.41 per $1,000 of assessed valuation.  The MISD has provided additional informatin about the cost of the levy and the tax implications of it in it's School Levy Fact Sheet available here. 

This levy pays for:

• 88 teachers and support staff across the district

• Lower Student-to-Teacher ratios K-12 beyond what the state funds

• The seven-period day at the high school which allows our students more course options than what is paid for by the state

• School counselors at the secondary level

• Enhanced special education programs

• Programs for English-language Learners (ELL) 

• Most athletic and sports programs

• Custodial services and building maintenance

• Nursing services

• Physical Education specialists

• Art, drama, debate and music programs

• Support for struggling students

• Materials and supplies

• Library resources

• Utilites

 














The General Fund Levy accounts for 23.6% of all education revenue for the Mercer Island School District