Dalton, GA – The Dalton Public Schools Board of Education is currently evaluating the option of opting out of Georgia’s House Bill 581 (OCGA 48-5-44.2), citing significant concerns about its potential impact on local funding and student outcomes. While the intentions of this bill are good, the net effect would be challenging if not detrimental to school districts, potentially affecting critical resources and programs.
As property values in Dalton remain undervalued by approximately 40%, the district’s reliance on local property taxes to fund essential programs is more critical than ever. For the current 2025 fiscal year, taxable property values are based on a temporary tax digest that primarily reflects 2023 values with minimal inflationary growth. This creates a shortfall in local funding for Dalton Public Schools. If the district does not opt out of HB 581, the resulting funding gap would act as a local exemption, further reducing state funding. This dual impact compromises the board’s ability to address specific educational needs, undermining local control and decision-making.
Unlike county or city governments, the school district cannot offset the loss of property tax revenue through alternative sources, such as local sales taxes. Local property tax revenue is essential for funding critical educational initiatives, particularly in light of rising mandated costs. Without these resources, the ability to provide a tailored, high-quality education for students is significantly hindered.
Over the past several years, Georgia public schools have faced mandated cost increases, including significant employer contributions to the State Health Insurance program. These expenses have required local tax revenues to fill funding gaps. The district’s fiscal year 2025 budget includes a robust implementation of Georgia’s new English Language Arts performance standards. This effort involves significant investments in literacy software programs, instructional materials, and professional development for elementary and middle school students and educators.
Dalton Public Schools also allocated funding for new positions focused on improving student outcomes. These include instructional interventionists and a district literacy administrator to lead literacy initiatives. These investments are crucial for ensuring Dalton’s students meet and exceed state performance standards, equipping them with the skills needed for long-term success.
Opting out of HB 581 represents a difficult but necessary decision to protect the quality of education for students. The board remains committed to advocating for funding policies that empower schools to serve their communities effectively.
The Dalton Public Schools Board of Education will continue to engage with stakeholders to ensure transparency and collaboration in this decision-making process.
For more information or to provide input, the board encourages attendance at one of the public hearings on this matter.
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