Impact of the Additional Mill

  • This is not a new tax. Manatee County voters first approved a 1-mill tax in 2018 to enhance teacher pay, add instructional time, expand STEM and support charter schools. Voters renewed the 1-mill in 2021 and extended funds to expand district arts programs. Here are some district successes since the mill was first passed.

  • Student Scores Rising
    In 2024, student scores improved across the board. 
    Reading scores went up in grades 3-10.
    Math scores went up in grades 3-7.

    Most district “A” schools since 2012:
    20 Board-governed schools
    4 Charter schools

     

    Increasing Pay Attracts New Teachers
    Starting Teacher Pay in Manatee County: 
    2017-2018 = $38,892 before millage
    2023-2024 = $57,572 with millage

     

    Rising Supplements Help Retain Experienced Teachers
    Annual millage supplements for Teachers: 
    2018-2019 = $4,008
    2023-2024 = $8,362

     

    Increasing Pay for Other Employees
    Bus Drivers: 
    2018-2019 = $13.93 per hour starting pay
    2023-2024 = $19.57 per hour starting pay

    Custodians: 
    2018-2019 = $11.48 per hour starting pay
    2023-2024 = $16.26 per hour starting pay

    Food Service Workers:
    2018-2019 = $11.50 per hour starting pay
    2023-2024 = $16.38 per hour starting pay

  • Emphasizing STEM in Every Elementary

  • Dominating the State TSA Competition

  • Earning Cambridge “District of the Year” Status

  • Making It to Carnegie Hall