(ABC 6 News) – Seven school districts in southeastern Minnesota and northern Iowa asked voters to approve referendums on Election Day.

In Rochester, it was a second attempt by the district to secure what it considers much-needed funding. However, unlike 2023, when Rochester Public Schools sought approval of a technology tax, this year RPS is seeking to receive an operating taxwhich can be used for a wider range of daily expenses.

The levy would generate $19.4 million annually for the district for ten years, subject to an annual increase at the rate of inflation. This would bring funding to $1,133 per student.

The referendum was adopted with 57% of voters.

Superintendent Dr. Kent Pekel made a statement on the success of the referendum, saying:

“Community approval of the Ignite Student Learning referendum will allow Rochester Public Schools (RPS) to avoid closing schools, increasing class sizes, and making significant cuts to positions and programs that serve our students. This will provide RPS with the financial stability we need to continue to implement our ambitious strategic plan and remain focused on our academic mission. Most importantly, this is an investment in our students that will be rewarded with the skilled workforce Rochester needs to thrive for decades to come. We look forward to providing regular updates to the community on how the referendum funds are being used, and we will work hard to continue to earn and build on the trust the community placed in us by approving the November 5 referendum 2024.”

Schools in Byron asked voters to approve an operating tax of $1.9 million per year for ten years, which would increase funds by $800 per student. This proposal was rejected with 58% of the votes against the referendum.

This district says this will force it to increase class sizes, reduce student support services, eliminate course offerings and reduce or eliminate after-school programs.

Voters rejected Dover-Eyota an operating tax to increase funds by $950 per student, with 64% of voters against the referendum.

According to the district’s website, the failure of the levy means it will have to cut $400,000 to $500,000 in spending for the 2025-2026 school year, including reducing staff and discontinuing some athletics and training programs. ‘activities.

Fillmore Center asked voters to replace its current $292.15 per student referendum with a $1,127 per student referendum. This failed as 58% of voters rejected the new levy.

The district’s website says a failed referendum means it could increase class sizes, eliminate classroom support positions, eliminate programs, change bus routes and/or impose additional fees.

Kingsland Public Schools had two referendum questions on the ballot, the second of which could only pass if the first also passed.

The first question asked for a maximum of $8.9 million for building maintenance improvements, while the second asked for a maximum of $11.5 million for a new gymnasium, locker rooms and equipment gymnasium. Voters answered “yes” to the first question, but “no” to the second.

In Iowa, the two local school referendums were both successful.

Voters approved Garner-Hayfield-Ventura Community Schools endorses referendum to improve HVAC equipment and security at high school entrance, among other repairs, up to $21.4 million. This was adopted with 67% of the votes.

The West Fork The bond referendum also passed with 63 percent of the vote, approving $16.8 million in repairs to HVAC systems, roofs and water pipes.