Two-thirds of Indiana school referendums pass
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Two-thirds of the school referendums on Hoosier ballots passed last week.
Why it matters: The tax increases will pay for essential services, from teaching positions to bus services.
- In the districts where the measures failed, it'll be a long two years before those districts can try again.
The big picture: There was a record number of referendums this year, as districts grappled with property tax cuts and changes to when schools could place a tax hike request on the ballot.
- Twenty-seven of them passed — including four each in Marion and Hamilton counties.
- Those in Decatur Township, Sheridan, Franklin, Anderson and Shelbyville were among the 12 that failed.
What they're saying: "Today, our schools are open, our students need us, and we have important work to do," Anderson Superintendent Joe Cronk said. "We will continue teaching, supporting, and caring for the children who come through our doors."
- "In the months ahead, we will have to address the budget shortfall," he said.
- Cronk added that the "difficult decisions" will take careful consideration "and a clear understanding of how they affect our students and staff."
Zoom in: The referendum to support Indianapolis Public Schools and participating charter schools passed last week, but it doesn't completely cover the district's budget gap.
- After the referendum passed, Superintendent Aleesia Johnson said the district will start moving forward with budget-cutting measures this month — including school closures.
- The district will ask the board to vote on school mergers and "right-sizing" innovation school agreements this month, since next year's enrollment has started.
- "Difficult decisions still lie ahead for us," Johnson said in a video message.
What's next: The IPS board has a work session scheduled for Tuesday.