Frequently Asked Questions

• Attracting and Retaining Highly Qualified Staff

• Maintenance (Aging Facility)

• Technology

• Transportation

• High-Quality Instruction/Instructional Materials/Professional Development

• Increase in Special Education Needs

Over the past several years, Wisconsin has experienced notable shifts in the responsibility for school funding, primarily characterized by an increased reliance on local funding mechanisms. This trend is evident in the record number of school referenda proposed and approved by voters. In 2024, Wisconsin voters faced 241 school referenda on their ballots, surpassing the previous high of 240 in 1998. Of these, 169 were approved, authorizing $4.4 billion in funding, including $3.3 billion in debt. This surge in referenda activity is attributed to factors such as inflation outpacing state revenue limits, pressures to raise wages, and the expiration of federal COVID-19 relief aid.

Source: apnews.com

• COVID relief

• Grant utilization 

• Contracted services

• Reduction in class sections

• Maintenance (Lighting and new boilers)

• Transportation (reduction of routes?)

• Limited Purchasing

For the 2024-2025 school year, the School District of Crandon’s property tax rate, also known as a mill rate is $5.77 per $1,000 of home value.

The chart below shows the impact of the referendum on a homeowner’s taxes on an annual, monthly, and daily basis. Amounts are shown based on a home value of $100,000, based on an estimated referendum mill rate increase of 24 cents per thousand dollars of property value. 

Over the past five years, our school district has strategically utilized both referendum funds and various grant opportunities to enhance educational experiences, improve infrastructure and support student success. By leveraging multiple funding sources, we have maximized our ability to make meaningful improvements while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.

• Facility Upgrades & Maintenance

• Technology & Classroom Enhancements

• Safety & Security Improvements

• Curriculum & Student Support Systems

Yes. This referendum is a nonrecurring referendum and would conclude at the end of the 2029-2030 school year.

In 2024, Wisconsin voters faced 241 school referenda on their ballots, surpassing the previous high of 240 in 1998. Of these, 169 were approved, authorizing $4.4 billion in funding, including $3.3 billion in debt.

Source: apnews.com

Maintaining a healthy fund balance is crucial for a school district because it ensures financial stability, operational flexibility, and the ability to respond to unexpected expenses. This allows school districts to operate smoothly, avoid financial crises, and provide a stable learning environment for students. 

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

TOWN OF ARGONNE
Argonne Town Hall
8842 Black Bear Avenue
Argonne, WI 54511

TOWN OF CRANDON
Crandon Town Hall
5474 County Road S
Crandon, WI 54520

CITY OF CRANDON
Crandon City Community Building
601 W Washington Street
Crandon, WI 54520

TOWN OF NASHVILLE
Nashville Town Hall
4265 State Highway 55
Crandon, WI 54520

TOWN OF LINCOLN
Lincoln Town Hall
5376 County Road W
Crandon, WI 54520

TOWN OF HILES
Hiles Town Hall
9193 N Main Street
Hiles, WI 54511

TOWN OF ALVIN
Alvin Town Hall
16942 State Highway 55
Alvin, WI 54542

Yes. Any qualified elector who registers to vote is eligible to request an absentee ballot. Under Wisconsin law, voters do not need a reason or excuse, such as being out of town on Election Day, to vote absentee. You have several options for requesting an absentee ballot and casting your vote. 

Visit www.elections.wi.gov/voters/absentee for more information on obtaining an absentee ballot.

Shall the School Board of the School District of Crandon be authorized to exceed the revenue limit under Section 121.91 of the Wisconsin Statutes by an amount of $1,250,000 for the 2025-2026 school year and $1,250,000 each year for the 2026-2027, 2027-2028, 2028-2029 and 2029-2030 school years on a non-recurring basis for the purpose of paying District operational costs as provided in the forgoing resolution?

It’s a balance of funding needs and fiscal strategy. The goal is to secure enough money to meet the district’s need while not overwhelming taxpayers or voters. By analyzing the budget and making budget cuts, the district shows it’s being responsible with its finances, which demonstrates that the district is not simply relying on additional funding but is also making internal adjustments.

* Source Wisconsin Policy Forum

As a community member, supporting a school funding referendum benefits you in several key ways, even if you don’t have children in the district:

• Schools provide children with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life, ensuring a well-educated workforce and informed citizens.

• Schools serve as gathering places for families, hosting events, sports, and extracurricular activities that bring people together.

• They foster a sense of community pride and identity.

• Many schools offer meals, healthcare, and mental health services that support students and families in need.

• Schools prepare students for the workforce. Well-funded schools produce skilled graduates who contribute to the local economy, attract businesses, and reduce unemployment.

• Many school improvements benefit the entire community, such as upgraded facilities, auditoriums, athletic fields, and libraries that can be used for public events and recreation.

• A strong school system enhances a community’s reputation, making it a more desirable place to live, work, and raise families.

• A strong school is a direct investment in the future of the entire community.

Yes! Please see the right-hand side of this page for times and locations! We hope to see you there!