Liveable City urges vote to address critical school needs
On June 14, Liveable City urged the Austin Independent School District (AISD) to consider a November 2010 tax ratification election to provide urgently needed funding for teacher salaries, pre-K and facilities maintenance with the goal of ensuring a strong public school system for Austin.
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To support a November funding vote, email AISD at: and
In a resolution submitted to the AISD board on June 14, Liveable City cited good public schools as a city's most valuable asset, noting their crucial role in attracting businesses, driving property values, shaping residential growth and preparing new generations to meet the responsibilities of adult life and the workplace.
"Of course, it's hard to call for a tax adjustment in this economy, but AISD's serious shortfalls in teacher pay, pre-K and facilities maintenance will only cost more to address the longer they are deferred," said Brian Donovan, Chair of the Board of Directors of Liveable City. "Unlike the city and the county, AISD doesn't have the luxury of adjusting its tax rate without a public election."
In calling for a tax ratification vote, Liveable City cited the following critical factors:
- AISD currently ranks 49th of the 50 largest Texas school districts in low teacher pay despite having one of the highest costs of living in the state, a discrepancy that results in significant ongoing training costs as experienced teachers continue to leave AISD for better salaries in other districts.
- AISD falls over 40 percent short in recommended funding for routine maintenance, resulting in deteriorating campus conditions that do not protect taxpayers' bond investments or provide safe, healthy learning environments for students.
- AISD now faces a $5 million shortfall for pre-K funding, despite research showing that high quality pre-K programs are an effective way to close the achievement gap for low-income students and English Language Learners and that every dollar invested in high quality early childhood programs saves taxpayers an estimated $13 in future costs.
A 2006 Texas law requires school districts to gain voter approval for an adjusted tax rate. Liveable City says immediate needs could be addressed at an estimated increase of less than $10 per month on a $250,000 home.
"During tough economic times, public investments should be carefully targeted to our most pressing needs," said Donovan. "We believe that a strong public school system is an asset Austin cannot afford to lose."