Understanding the 2024 Millage Referendum for Hillsborough County Public Schools

The Hillsborough County Special Education PTA (HCSEPTA) is committed to advocating for our students and supporting the initiatives that can improve their educational experience. One of the most pressing issues on the ballot this November is the proposed millage referendum for Hillsborough County Public Schools. We believe it’s crucial to educate the public about this referendum and why it’s essential for the future of our children’s education.

What is the Millage Referendum?

The 2024 Millage Referendum is a proposal that will appear on the November general election ballot. If approved by voters, it will authorize Hillsborough County to levy an additional property tax of one mill (equivalent to $1 per $1,000 of assessed property value) annually from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029. This funding is specifically aimed at supporting operating expenses such as salaries, supplies, and educational programs, which directly impact the quality of education in our schools.

Why is the Millage Referendum Important for ESE Students?

1. Filling Critical Gaps in Special Education Staffing: ESE students often require specialized instruction and support, which necessitates a higher level of staffing and expertise. Currently, Hillsborough County faces a significant shortage of qualified ESE teachers and support staff, with many vacancies that directly affect the services available to students with support needs. The proposed millage will provide the funding needed to recruit and retain experienced ESE teachers and support staff, ensuring that every student has access to the support they deserve.

2. Addressing Critical Funding Shortfalls: Florida ranks 50th out of 50 states for spending on teacher pay and benefits per student. The current funding levels are inadequate to attract and retain high-quality educators, which is essential for student success. The additional revenue from the millage will help bridge this gap by providing competitive salaries to teachers and support staff.

3. Improving Access to Inclusive Education: An inclusive educational environment is vital for the growth and development of all students. The millage will help ensure that ESE students have the opportunity to participate in a broader range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and social opportunities alongside their peers. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of belonging and supports the social and emotional well-being of ESE students.

How HCSEPTA is Involved

At HCSEPTA, we recognize the role that community awareness and involvement play in the success of educational initiatives. We are actively engaged in efforts to educate the public about the importance of the millage referendum through various channels:

  • Podcast and Op-Eds: We are collaborating on a podcast and writing op-eds to provide in-depth information and perspectives on the referendum, helping voters understand the impact of their vote.
  • Community Outreach: We are participating in town hall meetings, school events, and community gatherings to discuss the benefits of the millage with parents, educators, and local residents.
  • Informational Campaigns: Our goal is to ensure that every voter is informed about what the millage referendum entails and how it will benefit our schools and community.

Join Us in Supporting the Millage Referendum

We believe that passing the millage is a step toward building a stronger, more equitable educational environment in Hillsborough County. We invite you to join us in supporting this initiative. Your voice and vote can make a difference in shaping the future of our schools.

For more information, or to get involved in our advocacy efforts, please contact us at info@hcsepta.org. Together, we can work towards a better future for our children and community.

The 2024 Millage Referendum is an opportunity for Hillsborough County residents to invest in the future of our public schools. By supporting this initiative, we can help provide the resources needed to ensure every student has access to a high-quality education, dedicated teachers, and robust academic programs. Let’s come together to make a positive impact on our community.