Voters in Kootenai County and neighboring Shoshone County are being asked to approve supplemental school levies that would provide additional funding to their local districts. The measures appear on ballots as districts seek to close gaps between state education funding and local operational needs.
Supplemental levies are a common tool for Idaho school districts, allowing them to raise property tax revenue beyond base state funding to support programs, staffing, and facilities. Approval requires a simple majority of voters.
Education funding adequacy has been a persistent concern across North Idaho and the state. A recent analysis found that too few Idaho students graduate ready for the workforce, and where they live should not be the determining factor in the quality of education they receive.
Residents in the affected districts are encouraged to check with their local county clerk’s office for polling locations, ballot details, and levy dollar amounts before casting their votes.