What is the levy?

A levy is a property tax passed by voters. Our school support levy fills the gap between state funding and the actual cost of the programs and services we provide to our students. Mercer County has had a levy in place for over 60 years, and we are grateful for the support.

Eighty-six percent of Mercer County Schools expenses are fixed for things such as salaries, utilities, property and liability insurance, child nutrition, and Title I expenses. The remaining 13% of expenses are covered through the excess levy.

The levy helps us offer unique programs and activities that connect our students to their schools and get them excited about learning. The levy allows:

• Professional and Service Substitutes

• Support of extra-curricular activities such as choir, band, clubs, athletics, cheerleading, field trips, salaries for coaches, purchasing equipment/uniforms, transportation to away games/competitions

• School resource officers, Prevention resource officers, security cameras

• Free print and electronic textbooks, electronic devices, technology equipment, technical support to use materials and maintain equipment

• Athletic facility development, maintenance and repair

• Funding for the Alternative Education program including salaries and supplies

• Support of public libraries and 4-H activities

• Health services for students and employees

• Maintenance and upkeep of existing school facilities

• Permanent improvement funds for constructing new facilities, remodeling and major facility improvements

• Funds to assist with the cost of transporting students to and from school

• Employing additional teachers and professional student support personnel

• Fringe benefits such as employer contribution for salary supplements, dental insurance and optical coverage for all employees and dependents