The Plan

A responsible, community-based investment in our schools

An operating levy to support student learning and growth

On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, district residents will vote on a proposal to implement an operating levy to provide $500 in new funding per pupil at our schools. If approved, the levy would generate approximately $850,000 annually for 10 years, adjusted for inflation.

This additional funding will help the district avoid future deficits, correct the negative impacts of recent budget cuts, and protect classroom learning in the future. 

Local support for local schools

Revenue from the levy goes directly to the district’s general fund, which is used to support the day-to-day operation of our schools. Specifically, funds would be used to:

  • Preserve teacher and staff positions to ensure class sizes do not increase

  • Regularly update curriculum to best meet the needs of students

  • Invest in technology critical to technical training in design, manufacturing, healthcare, and the trades

  • Retain counselors and social workers who support student wellbeing

  • Protect electives and career/technical education programs

  • Address basic maintenance needs at school facilities

Smiling student looking at the camera while working on a school project

Why an operating levy? 

Compared to other types of voter-approved funding, an operating levy provides the most stable and flexible source of support for learning. It provides the same amount each year for the duration of its term, and funds can support any aspect of education paid for through the general fund. This predictability helps districts budget more responsibly. 

DGF is one of the few Minnesota districts without a voter-approved operating levy. More than 70% of districts rely on this type of funding to support basic operations.

Student performing on a xylophone.

What happens if the referendum fails? 

If the levy is not approved, our district will need to cut additional staff and programs to prevent further deficits over the next few years. This would lead to:

  • Six fewer full-time teachers (this would increase class sizes by up to 20%)

  • 1–4 fewer non-instructional staff

  • Reductions in electives, curriculum, technology, counseling, and building maintenance

These aren’t one-time cuts — without new funding, ongoing deficits will keep putting pressure on our classrooms, student support, and the overall quality of education.

That’s why the school board is proposing a local operating levy to provide financial stability and help us build on the progress our students and staff are making.