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The Oak Grove R-VI School District is asking for a two-part levy adjustment to address funding needs:

1. 70-cent transfer from debt service funds to operational funds, allowing for staff salary increases over three years.

2. 60-cent overall levy increase over three years to support staff retention, competitive salaries, new programs (FFA, STEM, apprenticeships), vocational training, and safety enhancements.

Key points:

• The district hasn’t requested a levy increase in 40 years.

• Oak Grove ranks lower in teacher pay compared to nearby districts, leading to staff losses.

• Missouri's state funding for schools has declined, forcing the district to rely more on local tax revenue.

The district emphasizes that these funds will help maintain small class sizes, improve programs, and invest in school safety, ensuring Oak Grove remains a strong educational community.

We encourage our community to explore the resources and reach out with any questions. Superintendent Mindy Hampton is available at

816-690-4156

mhampton@ogr6.org

Maintain smaller class sizes compared to districts around.

In the past 3 years, we have lost 10 staff members to Grain Valley or Blue Springs due to pay.

Increase base teacher pay to $45,000 by the 2027-2028 school year.

Increase non-certified staff pay by 15%.

Shall the Oak Grove R-VI School District of Jackson County, Missouri be authorized to increase the operating tax levy ceiling to $3.4061 per $100 of assessed valuation in tax year 2025, to $3.8061 per $100 of assessed valuation in tax year 2026 and to $4.2061 per $100 of assessed valuation in tax year 2027 and thereafter for general operating expenses of the District, including without limitation increasing compensation to attract and retain quality teachers and staff, to enhance district technology and STEM (science technology, engineering, and mathematics) programs and enhance school safety.

If this question is approved, the operating tax levy of the District is estimated to increase by $0.50 per $100 of assessed valuation in tax year 2025, by an additional $0.40 per $100 of assessed valuation in tax year 2026 and by an additional $0.40 per $100 of assessed valuation in tax year 2027. In connection therewith, the District expects to make reductions to its debt service tax levy of $0.30 per $100 of assessed valuation in tax year 2025, $0.20 per $100 of assessed valuation in tax year 2026 and $0.20 per $100 of assessed valuation in tax year 2027.

Approval of this question would result in the estimated overall tax levy of the District to increase $0.60 by tax year 2027

The Annual Secretary of the Board Report (ASBR) provides a year-end financial summary required by Missouri law. These reports — along with our invoices, board agendas, and meeting minutes — are all publicly available:

ASBR Reports: https://apps.dese.mo.gov/ASBR/PublicView.aspx

District Financials & Board Info: https://www.oakgrove.k12.mo.us/board.../agendas_and_minutes

When our schools thrive, everyone benefits — students, families, local businesses, and the future of our town!

April 8th isn’t just about casting votes—it’s about shaping the future. isn’t just about casting votes—it’s about shaping the future. Your voice matters, and every ballot cast helps determine the direction of our communities and country. Whether it's a local issue or a national decision, participating in the electoral process is a powerful way to make an impact. Get out and vote!