2025-2026 Levy Information

One Levy, One Purpose: 

Every Student Matters, Every Future Counts!

Mary Walker School District

Invested in Our Students, Committed to Our Community

Top 10 Questions About the Mary Walker School District EP&O Levy

1. What is an EP&O levy?

An EP&O levy is a local school levy that helps pay for important programs and services that are not fully funded by the state. These funds support day-to-day school operations like athletics, activities, special education, transportation, and staffing that help students succeed.

2. Why does the district need an EP&O levy?

The state helps pay for basic education, but it does not cover everything it actually costs to operate our schools. The levy helps fill that gap so Mary Walker schools can continue to offer a well-rounded education, maintain safe learning environments, and provide supports that students and families rely on.

3. What does the EP&O levy help pay for?

Levy funds support many essential parts of our schools, including:

• Special education programs
  
  
• Teachers and classified staff positions not fully funded by the state
  
  
• Athletics and extracurricular activities
  
  
• Student transportation
  
  
• Classroom materials and technology
  
  
• Safety, security, and student support services
  
  

4. How is a levy different from a bond?

A simple way to remember it is:
“Levies are for learning. Bonds are for buildings.”

Levies support daily school operations and student programs. Bonds are used for building or improving school facilities and are paid back over many years.

5. How much would this levy cost?

The proposed levy rate is $1.25 per $1,000 of assessed property value.

For example:

• A home valued at $300,000 would pay about $375 per year, or roughly $31 per month.
  
  

Actual costs depend on a home’s assessed value.

6. Doesn’t the state already pay for basic education?

The state does fund basic education, but that funding is limited. Many programs that support the whole child, such as athletics, activities, transportation, additional staffing, and student supports, depend on local levy funding.

7. What happens if the levy does not pass?

If the levy does not pass, the district would need to reduce spending. This could result in fewer staff, larger class sizes, reduced athletics and activities, and fewer supports for students. The district would have to make difficult decisions to balance the budget.

8. How often does the district ask voters to approve a levy?

EP&O levies are temporary and usually last two to four years. When a levy expires, the district must return to voters to request continued local funding.

9. Who can vote on the levy?

Any registered voter who lives within the Mary Walker School District boundaries is eligible to vote. Voting is done by mail, making it easy for community members to participate.

10. Where can I learn more?

More information is available on the district website, at school board meetings, and during community information events. Community members are also welcome to contact the district office with questions.