Faribault Superintendent Tells City Council Levy Request is Coming

Faribault Public Schools Superintendent Todd Sesker went before the Faribault City Council tonight and said the District will probably be asking the voters in November to support two levy questions.  He says if they pass and the high school is able to go to a seven period day it will "decrease the number of students that have to take summer classes, online classes and classes through home schooling.  All of which result in significant revenue loss for the district."

Sesker told the Council meeting as a Joint Committee the local Chamber of Commerce has endorsed the effort as well as school staff and students.  He said the questions are stilling being discussed but at this point one of the questions would be, "provide funding to support a 7 period day at the high school in order to provide more electives for students."

The second question would "provide funding to maintain current class sizes, prevent further staff reductions.  Funding could also be used to support transportation and support our successful ninth grade academy to tenth grade."

The dollar amounts being contemplated would be $835,000 to implement the seven period day.  Tax impact on a home valued at $175,000 would be $65 a year.

The second question would request $425,000 with a tax impact on that same home $34 a year.

The Faribault Superintendent reminded council members in the country the only portions of property assessed are the house, garage and one acre.  He added a community survey was conducted about a bond levy and operating levy.

Sesker said a bond levy request is being put on hold because they believe this funding is a high priority for the community.

Council member Elizabeth Cap a 1996 Faribault High School graduate noted when she was in school she had to make a choice between a language class and music because of the six period day and asked if the seven period day would end the necessity to make that choice.  High School Principal Jamie Bente emphatically said, "Yes."

Cap said, "Having such a small economic impact on the households to allow all these opportunities for our students and for our future I think is a great thing."