On Tuesday, Jacksonville voters approved the renewal of Duval Schools’ 1‑mill property tax levy, with roughly 75% voting in favor, according to JaxToday. The levy, which costs the average homeowner about $300 per year, generates approximately $125 million annually to fund teacher salary supplements of nearly $9,000 per teacher, as well as arts, athletics and charter‑school programs required by state law.

Duval Schools Superintendent Chris Bernier praised the result, saying the renewal “sends a clear and powerful message” of community support for the A‑rated district and expressing gratitude for the continued investment in educators and children.

The election also decided three open seats on the Duval School Board. In District 2, 26‑year‑old political strategist Donovan Bradley defeated parent‑teacher Donna Westrich with about 53% of the vote. In District 4, Rho Butler won a narrow 50.6% majority over James “Coach” Jacobs. In District 6, Lindsey Denmark secured roughly 53% of the vote against CJ James. All three newcomers were endorsed by the incumbent representatives for their districts, suggesting the board’s overall ideological balance is unlikely to shift despite the recent conservative trend.

While the board’s composition may remain stable, the renewed levy will provide a steady revenue stream for the district’s priorities. The $125 million generated each year will continue to support competitive teacher salaries, enhance arts and athletics programs, and fund charter schools as mandated by state law.

What’s next: The newly elected board members are set to assume office this month, and the district will begin allocating levy funds for the upcoming school year, ensuring that Jacksonville’s students and teachers benefit from the community’s strong backing.

Sources: jaxtoday.org