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2025 Onalaska School District Replacement Levy

On February 11, 2025, Onalaska School District is asking voters to consider a three-year replacement educational programs and operations (EP&O) levy to sustain quality educational opportunities for all Onalaska School District students. Our students deserve access to the same staffing and support that students in larger districts receive. If approved by voters, the levy would fund:

  • Extracurricular activities for  active and engaged students 

  • Health and counseling services for our students’ physical and mental well-being

  • Transportation for efficient and safe commutes

  • Technology and equipment for modern learning tools and resources

  • Music and enrichment programs for our students to explore their talents and passions

  • Special education for inclusive learning opportunities

  • Maintenance for welcoming and clean schools and facilities

  • Preschool for our youngest learners to grow and thrive

  • Security for safe and secure schools and environments

Your voice. Their education

This is NOT a new tax

Onalaska School District has continued to thrive from the opportunities created by the support from the community. This replacement EP&O levy is not a new tax. It replaces the current levy set to expire at the end of 2025.  

What is the yearly breakdown? 

The proposed three-year replacement levy will collect a total of $5.8 million from 2026–2028. 

  • 2026 proposed amount: $1,891,440 

  • 2027 proposed amount: $1,948,184

  • 2028 proposed amount: $2,006,629

Tax Rates

What will this cost?

The estimated rate for the replacement levy is $1.25 per $1,000 of assessed land value.

For example, if you own property with an assessed land value of:

  • $400,000 you’d pay $41.67 per month

  • $500,000 you’d pay $52.08 per month

  • $600,000 you’d pay $62.50 per month

Remember, this is a replacement levy. The calculation is the estimated total cost to property owners, not an additional tax.

Actual year-to-year levy rates will be based on the total assessed property value across Onalaska School District. We can only collect the total funds approved by voters. If property values rise, the rate per $1,000 of assessed property value will drop.

Did you know?

Our district’s assessed property values have consistently exceeded projections, resulting in the actual tax rate per $1,000 being lower than originally estimated each year.


School Funding

books and money

Why are you running a levy? Aren’t schools fully funded in Washington State?

Washington’s funding model serves all schools, but its one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t always meet the needs of small districts like Onalaska.

For us, state funding doesn’t cover critical programs like athletics, counseling, special education, music, and maintenance, which rely on local levies.

Get to know our school

At Onalaska School District, students are supported from pre-K through high school. Our schools provide a safe and welcoming environment, but like many small districts, we rely on local support to maintain critical programs and services.

From athletics and activities to special education, technology, and counseling, our schools aim to meet the needs of every student. Investments in these areas ensure Onalaska students are prepared for their future.

kids

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do levy dollars go?

Levies are for learning. All funds raised from voter-approved measures support current and future generations of Onalaska students.

When do I need to vote by?

Ballots must be turned in by February 11, 2025.

Who is eligible to vote?

All registered voters residing within Onalaska School District are eligible to vote on the levy.

How can I register to vote?

Visit elections.lewiscountywa.gov  to learn how to register online, by mail, or in person.  

Are there exemptions?

Seniors and people with disabilities may be exempt from all or part of levies and bonds. Visit the Lewis County Assessor’s Office online or in person to learn more.

faq

Please vote by February 11, 2025.

Want more information? Call the District Office at 360-978-4111 or email bpadgett@onysd.wednet.edu.