Frequently Asked Questions
Levy Transfer
Q: What is a Levy Transfer?
A: A levy transfer allows the district to move funds from the debt service fund to the operating fund. This would help provide competitive compensation for employees, ensuring we can attract and retain high-quality faculty and staff, all without changing the current tax rate or impacting debt payments. It's a way to use the resources the community has already provided in a way that most effectively impacts students and staff.
Q: What is the district asking to transfer?
A: We are asking to transfer $0.70 from Fund 3 (Debt Service) to Fund 1 (Operating).
Q: What is the difference between a levy and a bond?
A: Bonds and levies provide schools with funds that must be used for specific purposes.
-Bonds are used for capital improvement projects such as new construction, building repairs, and equipment.
-Levies fund the district’s operating costs, including salaries, benefits, and attracting and retaining staff.
Q: Why does the district have the need for a Levy Transfer?
A: Oak Grove used to get 55% of revenue from the state, and that has dropped to <40% over the years, causing local schools across the state to rely more on local taxes to remain in operation.
Q: What does it take to pass a levy transfer?
A: A levy transfer/increase must have just above 50% in yes votes (a simple majority).
Q: Why does the district prioritize staff compensation with the levy transfer?
A: Competitive compensation is crucial to attracting and retaining high-quality educators and staff, which in turn directly impacts the quality of education for students. Currently, the surrounding schools pay more than Oak Grove (Odessa, Grain Valley, Blue Springs).
Q: What happens if both the levy transfer passes?
A: The district can increase the pay of our teachers and staff to retain our AMAZING teachers and recruit new staff.
Q: Didn’t the passing of the Lottery and Gambling in Missouri give more money to schools?
A: No, these funds are earmarked to schools, but not as additional or new money. They are funds used to replace reallocated money from the state funding.
Election Logistics
Q: When is the election?
A: Election Day is Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Q: Who can vote on the Levy Transfer Question?
A: Anyone who lives within the Oak Grove School District boundaries will see this question on their ballot. We have residents in Jackson, Lafayette, and Johnson Counties.
Q: Where do I vote?
A: Your voter card, sent by the County Board of Elections, will provide this information. If you cannot find your card, please contact the Board of Elections:
Jackson County: 816-325-4600
Lafayette County: 660-259-4315
Johnson County: 816-858-4400
If you cannot vote in person on August 5, 2025, you can request an absentee ballot.
Q: What are the No Excuse Absentee voting dates?
A: During the two weeks before the election, you may vote a no-excuse absentee ballot in person at a location designated by your local election authority. When voting an absentee ballot in person, you must show an acceptable form of photo ID.
Q: When is the last day to register to vote?
A: The last day to register to vote is Wednesday, July 9, 2025. Click HERE for information on how to register to vote.
