2026 Operating Levy
GLENCOE-SILVER LAKE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Protect what makes GSL Great. Build what comes next.
The 2026 operating levy referendum is about giving GSL the stability and flexibility to serve today's students-and prepare responsibly for the future.
Much of Minnesota school funding is tied to enrollment. When enrollment declines, revenue declines too—but the cost of operating classrooms, buildings and student services does not fall at the same rate.
At the same time, schools are responding to more varied academic, behavioral, mental health and special education needs. GSL must make responsible changes while protecting the classroom experience families value.
WHAT THE INVESTMENT PROTECTS
Five priorities for a strong GSL
Operating levy dollars support the day-to-day learning experience: people, programs, services
and opportunities
Right-size GSL for the future
Align staffing, programs and resources with changing enrollment while protecting the quality of education students receive.
Protect small class sizes
Keep enrolment changes from automatically becoming larger classrooms and less individual attention for students.
Meet increasing student needs
Support academic intervention, special education, mental health, behavior, social-emotional learning and technology needs.
Preserve and create opportunities
Sustain strong academics, arts, athletics, and activities while expanding career pathways, trades, technology and innovative learning.
Build a stable future
Give the district flexibility to adapt, attract excellent educators and make responsible decisions before larger cuts are required.
THE CENTRAL QUESTION
What kind of school district do we want to provide for the students who are here?
Small class sizes Excellent educators student support meaningful opportunities
Fewer students. Higher costs.
Growing needs.
The district has right-sized expenses as enrollment has changed, but the cost of providing
education and the proportion of students requiring specialized support have continued to rise.
ENROLLMENT
1,564 → 1,380
2014-2015 2024-2025
-11.8% fewer students
GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES
$17.8M → $21.30M
2014-2015 2024-2025
+24.0% total spending
COST PER STUDENT
$10,990 → $15,440
2014-2015 2024-2025
+40.5% per student
STUDENTS RECEIVING SPECIAL EDUCATION
~14% → 20.4%
2014-2015 2024-2025
1 in 5 students today
A Stable investment in GSL.
The proposed operating levy would provide predictable local revenue to protect the programs,
staff and opportunities students rely on every day.
ADDITIONAL OPERATING LEVY
$1.2 million
Generated for GSL each year
Length
10 years
Predictable local funding
$250,000 HOME INCREASE
$193/year
Approximately $16.08 per month/$0.53 per day
ELECTION
Nov. 3, 2026
School district ballot question
WHY COSTS HAVE INCREASED
Many essentials costs are
beyond the district's control.
► Salary and benefit increases from negotiated contracts
► Health and property insurance
► Utilities: electricity, gas and water.
► Transportation fuel, parts and contractors
► Supplies, materials, technology and curriculum
► Facility maintenance and building projects
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE LEVY DOES NOT PASS?
Without this revenue,
significant cuts would directly
affect students and families.
Larger K-6 class sizes
The district may need to reduce 4-8 teaching positions.
Average class sizes could increase to 27-30 students.
Junior high activities at risk
The district may be forced to cut or eliminate junior high sports and other programs.
Higher family fees
Activity, athletic and course fees may increase to help offset lost funding.
Less staff and fewer opportunities
Cuts could affect teachers, support staff, counselors, interventions and elective courses.
Vote November 3, 2026
Whether you vote early, absentee or on Election Day, remember that the school district question may appear on the back of your ballot.
Turn it over. Find the Question. Cast your vote.
