YELM, Wash. — Yelm School District officials warn that sports programs, even the football team, along with music and other extracurricular activities could face cuts if voters reject a fourth consecutive school levy.
Superintendent Chris Woods described the potential cuts as “heartbreaking,” but says the district has few options remaining after three consecutive levy failures left the budget severely strained.
“We don’t get any funding from the state for athletics, and we’ve tried to maintain it through these failed levy attempts, but we’re to the place now where we’re not going to be able to maintain athletics and activities as we’ve had them,” Woods said.
The district has already made significant reductions following previous levy rejections. More than 100 staff members, including teachers, paraprofessionals, and counselors, have been laid off, and classrooms have become more crowded. Choir and high school drama programs have already been eliminated, though band classes remain for now.
Woods emphasized that activities like music, arts and athletics are crucial student engagement tools.
“Those are hooks for many of our students. That’s what keeps them coming back every day. That’s what keeps them interested in being in school, but also the relationships that they build with staff,” he said.
However, some residents remain opposed to increased taxes.
Martin Miller, who lives in a rural part of the district, said the levy would add approximately $100 monthly to his property tax bill on his million-dollar assessed home.
He is also skeptical of Woods’ threats to cut athletics.
“I got 100 bucks that says they got football when this levy fails next year,” said Miller, “The levy is really the only way somebody like me can fight back. And I’m just, I’m clawing just to keep my home,” Miller said, adding that he and neighbors believe schools need greater efficiency.
The district is requesting a lower levy amount than previous attempts.
Residents within the school district would pay an additional $1.30 for every $1,000 of assessed value. Prior levies requested more than two dollars per $1,000.
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