Technology Millage Renewal

Technology Millage Renewal Information

Who is conducting the May 4th millage renewal election?

As required by state law, the local Boards of Education for the nine public school districts, the Monroe County ISD, and the two charter schools, throughout Monroe County have requested that the Monroe County Intermediate School District's Board of Education conduct this election to seek renewal of the county-wide millage for educational technology initiatives that support curriculum goals in the schools, across all grades K-12.

How are the funds distributed?

Following the election, the monies generated by the millage will be distributed to these local school districts: Airport Community Schools, Bedford Public Schools, Dundee Community Schools, Ida Public Schools, Jefferson Schools, Mason Consolidated Schools, Monroe County ISO, Monroe Public Schools, New Bedford Academy, Summerfield Schools, Triumph Academy, and Whiteford Agricultural Schools, based on each district's K-12 student population.

Why is the May 4th vote a county-wide election?

State law mandates that only intermediate school districts are allowed to place regional enhancement millages on the ballot for voter consideration. Since 1997, local school districts have been unable to approach the public for regional enhancement operating millages at the district level. This is a county-wide election because, by law, that is the only option.

Is this a new tax? What is the amount being requested?

This is NOT a new tax; it is a renewal request. Since it is a renewal, our local property taxes will NOT increase. This request for renewal amounts to .9866 mill for five years, which represents .9866 cents of taxes for every $1,000 of taxable value on a home. [Each home has its taxable value. For instance, a home with a taxable value of $ 100,000 would provide $98.66 per year for educational technology.] The renewal request is for slightly LESS than 1 mill.

When is the election? Who can vote on this proposal?

The election will be held on Tuesday, May 4, 2021. Polling places will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and mail-in ballots will be available 45 days prior to the election. All persons who are at least 18 years of age, who are residents of Monroe County school districts, and who are registered voters can vote on the issue.

How will the millage money be used in our schools?

Millage dollars are designated solely for educational technology, related staffing, and services, and cannot be used for any other expenses. Technology opens the way for fundamental structural changes that can be essential to achieving significant improvements in productivity in both teaching and learning. Technology infuses classrooms with digital learning tools, such as computers and handheld devices; expands course offerings, experiences, and learning materials; supports learning 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; builds 21st-century skills; increases student engagement and motivation; and accelerates learning. Technology can transform teaching by providing resources to help teachers improve their instruction and personalize learning. Recently, online learning opportunities and the use of open educational technology resources have proven to be necessary and valuable for students and teachers.

Evolution of Instructional Technology in Monroe County as Result of the Technology Millage and Renewals since 1997

Since 1997, the Monroe County Technology Enhancement Millage has afforded the school districts in Monroe County the ability to provide students with the most up-to-date educational technology. 

Click the image at right to review this growth within all nine local school districts. 

Questions?

For further information regarding the Monroe County Technology Enhancement Millage Renewal, please contact MCISD Superintendent Stephen McNew, at 734.322.2610 or stephen.mcnew@monroeisd.us.