Jupiter High School seniors Sawyer Tinsley and Hannah Russell, both 17, have taken the lead in a community‑wide campaign urging Palm Beach County voters to renew the one‑mill property tax that has funded the district since 2019. Though they cannot yet cast a ballot, the pair are mobilizing peers, parents and local officials to ensure the tax’s continuation.

Why the tax matters

The one‑mill levy generates “hundreds of millions of dollars” for the district each year, supporting academic programs, extracurricular activities and, critically, teacher salaries. District officials warn that without the levy, programs across the board would face cuts and teachers could see a reduction of $8,000 from their annual pay.

Seniors make the case

“We’re asking for a pledge to vote. So, the pledge is basically saying I’m going to go out, I’m going to vote, and I’m going to vote yes,” said Russell, explaining the petition’s purpose. Both students emphasized the direct link between teacher pay and classroom quality. “If they aren’t getting paid a livable wage, how are they supposed to come in our classroom and teach us and be positive, be motivated, and say, ‘Hey, listen, why don’t you become a teacher too,’” Russell added.

Tinsley echoed the sentiment, noting the broader impact on families. “We just care so much about them, and we want to see them still be able to live their everyday lives and not have to struggle,” she said.

Proven activism

Earlier this year, the duo helped secure a pay raise for teachers through a similar grassroots effort. Their current strategy includes an online petition, social‑media outreach, direct appeals to elected officials and door‑to‑door canvassing in neighborhoods throughout the county.

Community response

Local parents and community leaders have expressed support for the seniors’ initiative, noting that stable funding protects not only teachers but also the children who rely on consistent, high‑quality education. “It affects us, it affects our teachers, it affects our families, and it affects so many people,” Russell said.

How to get involved

Residents can sign the online petition, pledge to vote yes on the referendum, and spread the word through social media or by speaking with neighbors. Detailed information about the measure and the petition is available through the school district’s website.

With the election approaching, the seniors hope their advocacy will translate into a clear voter mandate to keep the tax in place, preserving essential school services and ensuring teachers receive a livable wage.

Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.