The Wolfpack Plan
Keeping WHA Schools Strong for Every Student
Protecting Our Progress
Walker-Hackensack-Akeley Schools offer a caring and challenging environment with limitless opportunities for students. Our community has consistently supported our schools, most recently by approving a bond referendum that invested in improving and modernizing our school buildings. As promised, the building referendum resulted in no or modest tax increases for homeowners.
This November, the school board is proposing a plan to take advantage of state aid and generate new revenue for our students’ futures through a two-question operating levy referendum. With new funding, we can support the things that matter most — classroom learning, support services, athletics and activities, and our teachers and staff.
QUESTION 1:
Replaces existing local levies with a new operating levy that qualifies for about $637,000 in new state aid. Because existing school taxes would be removed if this question passes, there would be no increase in next year’s property taxes from this vote.
QUESTION 2:
Authorizes an additional operating levy of $553 per pupil. This question would bring back another $188,000 in new state aid for Wolfpack education needs. The estimated cost to residents would be $4 per month on a $400,000 home.
QUESTION 1+ 2:
Together, Questions 1 and 2 would provide about $1 million annually for WHA Schools, including about $825,000 from the state. Thanks to the hard work of rural legislators and a new state aid program, a modest local investment would unlock state dollars for our students.
What makes this different is the new Seasonal Recreation Property Tax Base Replacement Aid program (STBRA), designed to help Lake Country districts like ours. If voters approve the plan, the new program would bring taxes on cabin property and vacation homes back to WHA schools.
If approved by voters, the Wolfpack Plan would:
Help preserve student opportunities, academic programs, support services, activities and athletics.
Attract, retain and support the dedicated teachers and staff who help students succeed.
Strengthen our long-term financial foundation and protect our community’s investment in WHA Schools.
From Cabins to Classrooms
Every dollar generated through the Wolfpack Plan would directly support our students every single day. With support from our community and new state aid, the plan would sustain the programs, services and educators that make WHA a place where students can learn, grow and thrive.
Learn about the proposed plan, what it means for our students, the tax impact and how to make your voice heard on Election Day by exploring this website.
You can submit questions, feedback or ideas to us directly using the Connect page.