Worthington FAQ

							   Answers to most frequently asked questions about the
       Nov. 6 Levies for Worthington City Schools
                    -Issues 53 and 54-

Q. What is on the November 6 ballot for Worthington Schools?
A. Worthington City Schools are on the November 6 ballot for TWO important
ballot issues – an operating levy that starts at 4.9 mills and phases in to 6.9 mills
over three years. It will fund our day-to-date operations and maintain vital
programs, staff and keep current class sizes.

The second issue is a no new millage bond issue, which will repair and maintain our
facilities, and allow us purchase and update buses and technology.

Both are vitally important to maintain and protect the great work happening in our
schools.

Q. Why two issues?
A. Since State law        prohibits school districts from combining an incremental
operating levy with a bond issue, the Board of Education believed that two separate
ballot issues are best for the taxpayers and our schools. Many of our residents are
still struggling in this tough economy, so it was extremely important for us to move
forward with the most taxpayer friendly levy option. The incremental levy will allow
residents to vote on a ballot issue that is more affordable because the full amount of
the levy will be phased-in over three-years. Under this system, the school district
does not get the funds until it's absolutely necessary, meaning that taxpayers get to
keep more of their own money.

Q. Why levies at this time?
A. Massive state cuts have hit us hard. Despite practically $10 million in cuts in
state funding and the elimination of an important funding source (Ohio's Tangible
Personal Property Tax), Worthington Schools have worked with staff to stretch the
2009 levy. This is a remarkable value and one that was achieved through budget
reductions and conservative fiscal management. In order to maintain our operations
and facilities at current levels, additional funding is needed.

Q. How has Worthington trimmed costs?
A. The Board of Education and administrators have cut more than $3 million from
the operating budget and all staff agreed to a wage freeze and they are paying more
for health care. That commitment enabled us to make a lean request – levies that
will stabilize the schools and protect the academic programs we value so much.
Q. What do we get if the levies pass?
A. These levies are about maintaining the excellence that is Worthington Schools.
If the levies pass, it means we can protect and preserve what we have for at least 3
more years. These two issues are not for new programs and there are no frills.
Every dollar will stay in the district to fund day-to-day operations and maintain the
best learning environment for our students. None of the funds will go to Washington
or the Statehouse.

Q. What will happen if these levies do not pass?
A. Our Board of Education will need to take a         hard look at everything that
Worthington offers above state minimum requirements. Discussions will begin as
we determine what is likely to be reduced as a result of lack of revenue--- cuts that
will go to the heart of Worthington’s excellence. These are cuts that are beyond the
$3 million that we have already enacted since 2009. The district will also see a
reduction in the funds necessary to repair and maintain our facilities, and not to
mention our ability to ensure adequate technology and transportation for our
students.

Q. Aren’t cuts just a threat?
A. No. We cannot maintain and protect current operations if the levies fail this
November. Worthington has worked hard to absorb massive cuts in state funding
and any further reductions in revenue will impact the quality of our schools.



Q. What are the district priorities?
A. We are committed to putting first things first – classroom instruction at a lean
cost. In fact, while no one likes to pay taxes, the fact is the school district continues
to have one of the lowest residential millage rates of surrounding districts in Central
Ohio, which translates into lower property taxes.

Q.   I remember the long lines four years ago when we voted for President. Can I
vote on the levies before Election Day without the lines?

A.   Absolutely. Every registered voter will receive an application to vote by mail
(absentee ballot) from the Board of Elections in September. If you do not receive
yours, call the Board of Elections at (614) 525-3470 and enjoy the privilege of
voting from the comfort of your own home.