The Plan

Stabilize the Budget and Protect Student Success

At MAPS, we’re building foundations for students to thrive. Recent strides in attendance, early literacy, and real-world learning opportunities are powerful testaments to the success of our programs. But without voter-approved funding to fill our financial gap, our schools face deeper cuts in the years ahead.

On November 4, Moorhead Area Public Schools is presenting district voters with a two-question referendum:

  • Question One

    Asks voters to consider an operating levy that would generate $4.37 million each year ($575 per pupil) for 10 years.

    An operating levy helps fund a school district’s operating budget, which pays for day-to-day school functions. This includes teacher and staff salaries, supplies, program costs, utilities, and routine maintenance. 

  • Question Two

    Proposes a capital projects levy that would generate $1.5 million per year for 10 years.

    A capital projects levy helps fund a school district’s capital, technology, and transportation needs, keeping the general fund focused on students and learning.

Together, both levies would provide a total of $5.87 million annually to stabilize the district’s budget and protect education in our district for years to come.

Why Two Questions?

By funding different needs, the two levies create a balanced, comprehensive strategy to stabilize our budget and address complex challenges.

State law requires the two levies to be voted on separately because they impact different types of property taxes. Operating levies apply to residential and commercial/industrial property. Capital projects levies apply to a wider range of property types.

If the Referendum Fails:

  • $5 million in cuts next year

  • Fewer teachers, larger class sizes, and reduced student programs

  • Deeper cuts to academics, arts, and electives

  • Budget instability that threatens innovation and progress

If the Referendum Passes: 

  • Protect staffing levels, class sizes and student support

  • Maintain quality academic and extracurricular programs

  • Sustain critical services and future-ready learning

  • Restore financial stability and invest in student success

What happens if only one ballot question passes?

The two ballot questions are legally separate. If one question passes and the other fails, funds from the approved levy cannot be shifted to cover the needs of the failed levy. Each levy can only be used for its specific, voter-approved purpose. That means if one fails, the district would still need to move forward with budget reductions. Passing just one levy would provide some support for our schools, but would also leave financial gaps. Together, the two levies provide a balanced and comprehensive plan to stabilize our budget and protect education.