Key Takeaways
- Ballot Question 2 is a one-size-fits-all school funding cap that undermines local decision making and will make it harder for community public schools to meet the needs of every student.
- The real issue is that the State of New Hampshire fails to fund public schools adequately. The State pays only 17 cents of every dollar spent on public education in NH—the lowest state contribution in the country. If politicians really wanted to reduce property taxes, they would pass real school funding reform.
- Every Granite State student deserves a high-quality education, safe and welcoming public schools, and the support they need to thrive—regardless of their zip code.
With the November 3 General Election approaching, our union has an important opportunity to help New Hampshire voters understand what’s at stake for our public schools.
For the first time this year, every single New Hampshire voter will face a question on the ballot that would impose a one-size-fits-all school funding cap in their school district(s). These caps would make it harder for local communities to provide the education and support every student deserves. As educators know, public school districts must pay for building costs, special education services, transportation, health insurance, utilities, and salaries every year, regardless of inflation. When required costs rise but the budget can’t, districts are forced to cut sports, arts, music, theater, AP classes, classroom supplies, and educator positions which results in larger class sizes.
The real issue is that the State of New Hampshire fails to fund public schools fairly or adequately. The State pays only 17 cents of every dollar spent on public education in New Hampshire - the lowest state contribution in the country. That means property taxpayers, including educators, are left to pick up the tab. If politicians really wanted to reduce property taxes, they would pass real school funding reform - not continue to kick the can down the road.
Every Granite State student deserves a high-quality public education, safe and welcoming schools, and the support they need to thrive - regardless of their zip code. Our students are counting on us to protect their schools and their futures by rejecting arbitrary school funding caps.
On November 3, vote NO on Question 2!
