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Voters in the Dodgeville and Iowa-Grant school districts will be asked to approve referendums that both school boards say are necessary to keep their respective schools operating.
They are not alone.  There are 54 school districts in Wisconsin needing help from their district taxpayers. The questions ask anything from new construction to assistance with keeping existing programs.
If the referendums do not pass the boards will be forced to look at cuts to staff and programs which is not good news for students who will soon be the adults of society
No one wants to pay more in taxes but when the State of Wisconsin does not provide aid increases or keeps aid levels at zero balance it becomes necessary to ask.
Dodgeville district taxpayers are being asked to pass a $1.89 million referendum. That is far less than the $48 million asked for and defeated the last time around. That referendum included a new high school building while this one is designed to bring the current building up to date in maintenance and in the STEM area (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).
The money will primarily be used at the high school which was opened in 1964. The plan is the result of a25 member community group who studied the facilities and recommend a course of action to the board.
If the referendum does not pass the needs will still be there. The energy systems will still need upgrading, the classrooms will need to be fitted for space needs and the need for additional construction will still be there.
Passing the referendum will keep programs and staff. Turning it down will no doubt see changes made that won't be in the best interest of the students.
A yes vote makes sense.
At Iowa-Grant the needs are the same. There is not enough money provided by the state, federal or other sources to keep the district operating at present levels. The board feels they cannot cut further without impacting learning and student success.
Voters in that district are being asked to approve a $1.8 million recurring referendum. That means the assessment will be in force every year.
Again there is little else the Iowa-Grant district can do that will keep things positive for students.
This question also deserves a yes vote.
If you feel you need more information contact the administrator or a board member. The information is there if you need it.