Hermitage, Mo. – The Hermitage R‑IV School District is once again placing a property‑tax levy on the ballot, asking voters to approve a 50‑cent increase per $100 of assessed property value. The measure, known locally as Proposition Teachers, failed in the August election and the district says a second loss could force cuts to staff, programs and extracurricular activities.

Why the levy is needed

The district’s current operating levy was set years ago to meet a state mandate that requires a minimum $2.75 levy for a district to receive full state aid. Hermitage has not asked for a levy increase in more than three decades, and officials say the existing levy no longer covers rising costs.

Potential impact on families and businesses

According to district estimates, a standard homeowner would see the levy add less than $8 a month to their property tax bill, while a local business would pay under $14 a month. Superintendent Ray Aubuchon emphasized that the board has tried to avoid raising taxes for as long as possible, but now faces a fiscal reality that makes additional revenue unavoidable.

Consequences of another defeat

Aubuchon warned that if Proposition Teachers is rejected again, the district may have to make unavoidable staff reductions and cut programs that support extracurricular activities—areas he described as “very important” to a small school community. He noted that past cuts were absorbed by staff departures, but further reductions could affect teachers, coaches and support personnel who keep these programs running.

Timing of the funds

Even if the levy passes, the district will not receive the additional money until January 2028, leaving a 14‑month gap before the funds become available to teachers and students.

Community response

Superintendent Aubuchon expressed disappointment after the August vote, saying the result was “so close” and that the community’s support is essential for maintaining the quality of education. He added, “I always come back for the same reason, the children,” underscoring his personal commitment to the district’s mission.

How to vote

Registered voters in the Hermitage school district will see Proposition Teachers on their November ballot. The district encourages residents to review the levy details and consider the long‑term effects on classroom staffing, student services and after‑school programs before casting their vote.

For more information about the levy, residents can contact the Hermitage school district office or visit the district’s website.

Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.