A Smaller Ask, Focused on What Matters Most
Earlier this year, the District engaged the community around its operating and facility needs. The feedback was clear:
Pay teachers competitively so they stay in the District, and so the District can attract quality teachers
Don't ask residents to fund a bond on top of an MLO right now
The District listened and will not pursue a bond measure at this time. What appears on the ballot is a single, focused MLO proposal.
Top Reasons to Vote Yes
Better Pay = Quality Teachers
Weld RE-1's starting teacher pay is the lowest in the region. MLO funding would go toward closing the pay gap, helping the District recruit and retain qualified teachers and staff.
Tax Rate Remains Among the Lowest
If approved, Weld RE-1's school district tax rate would remain one of the lowest in the region
Oil & Gas Pays the Majority
The oil and gas industry would fund more than 66% of the associated taxes, while homeowners would be responsible for less than 7%.
Modest Tax Impact
About $1.77/month ($21/year) for a $400,000 home.
MLO Only; No Bond
The District will not pursue a bond measure this year, only an MLO for operating needs.
Why It Can't Wait
Teachers Are Leaving for Better Pay Elsewhere
Weld RE-1's starting teacher pay is the lowest among comparable districts, which is why turnover is so high.
Turnover Affects Students
High turnover disrupts continuity for students and adds recruitment and training costs year after year. It's expensive to train new teachers only to have them leave for better pay elsewhere.
State Funding Has Already Dropped $3.8 Million
The District has lost approximately $3.8 million in state funding since 2020.
Proposed MLO Details
Better Teacher & Staff Pay
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Starting teacher salaries would increase from $43,500 to $51,000.
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All teachers pay schedules would increase.
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Classified staff wages would increase to better align with market rates.
Improved Recruitment & Retention
Helps the District address the recruitment and retention challenges driving high turnover.
Focused Local Funding
The proposed MLO would raise up to $1.3 million a year for teacher and staff salaries. All funds would stay local.
Understanding the Tax Impact
Based on current property values, the tax impact of the proposed MLO would be primarily carried by local industry rather than residents.
Oil & Gas Pays the Majority
The oil and gas industry would fund more than 66% of the associated taxes, while homeowners would be responsible for less than 7%.
Weld RE-1's Tax Rate Would Remain Among the Lowest
If approved, Weld RE-1's school district tax rate would remain one of the lowest in our region.
Estimated Tax Impact: $1.3 Million MLO
For homeowners who qualify and apply for the Homestead Property Tax Exemption, the tax impact would be lower. Estimates are based on current total assessed valuation and an assessment rate of 7.05%, and are preliminary and subject to change.
The Bottom Line
Weld RE-1 has the lowest starting teacher pay among its peer districts, and turnover remains a significant challenge, affecting students as well as staff. The District listened and will not pursue a bond measure. The proposed MLO would:
Provide competitive pay to keep great teachers in Weld RE-1 classrooms
Reduce turnover and the recruitment and training costs that come with it
Keep all funds local
Be more than 66% funded by the oil and gas industry
Cost about $1.77 a month for an average home
Stay Informed.
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