Wilson Creek School District seeks replacement EP&O levy

WILSON CREEK — Voters in the Wilson Creek School District will decide in February on a two‑year replacement Educational Programs and Operations levy, which would continue funding for classroom support, student programs, technology and basic district operations. The measure would replace the district’s existing levy, which expires at the end of 2026.  

According to the district’s ballot materials, the proposed levy would collect up to $386,000 in 2027 and $397,500 in 2028. The measure has an estimated tax rate of $2.50 per $1,000 of assessed property value, the same rate approved by voters in 2022. 

Superintendent Kandice Hansen said the levy helps fund several core parts of the district’s operations, which are not fully covered by state funding. 

“It helps support classroom staffing, student programs such as athletics, field trips, technology, devices and software,” Hansen said. “It also helps with transportation and school safety.” 

Hansen said local funding is crucial for tiny districts like Wilson Creek. 

“No district in the state, especially small districts like ours, is fully funded for the facilities and staffing we need to maintain student safety and academic success,” she said. “The levy helps avoid cutbacks.” 

The levy is a replacement, not a new tax, meaning residents are already paying an EP&O levy and would continue at the same rate if voters approve the proposal.  

The district will also receive Local Effort Assistance funds from the state if the levy is passed. LEA funds come from the state to help property-poor districts cover costs, with the only stipulation for the funds being that a local EP&O levy is in place. In 2025-26, according to documents from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Wilson Creek School District received around $8,600 in LEA funds.  

Hansen said the district’s focus is on ensuring students have access to needed services. 

“We’re very much looking forward to continuing to provide services for our students,” she said. “This levy makes that possible.” 

      

    Wilson Creek voters will weigh in on the replacement of Educational Programs and Operations Levy in the upcoming February election. The levy funds classroom support, student programs – including athletics, technology and basic district operations. Pictured is Wilson Creek varsity boys basketball player Landon McMillan.