Becker Public Schools continues to take pride in providing exceptional opportunities for students while maintaining responsible financial stewardship. Over the past several years, the district has carefully managed its budget to preserve quality programming, retain staff and meet the needs of our nearly 3,000 students, without the large-scale cuts and large class sizes seen in many neighboring districts. 

On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Becker School District residents will vote for a school board member to fill the vacancy of Troy Berning’s position and we will be voting on an operating levy referendum of $200 per pupil, which would generate approximately $643,000 annually. For the average Becker home valued at about $395,000, the cost would be about $9 per month.

If approved, the levy would allow the district to maintain continuity and stability by keeping current staffing levels and programs intact; protect valued programs such as academics, arts, athletics, student services, and extracurriculars; prepare for uncertainty amid rising costs and state/federal mandates, including READ Act, Paid Family & Medical Leave, expanded unemployment insurance, and more.

According to Superintendent Dr. Jeremy Schmidt. “The proposal is about preserving what we already have and being ready for the future. We have worked hard to maintain financial balance and keep our opportunities strong for students,” 

Like many districts throughout Minnesota, Becker faces rising costs from inflation and unfunded mandates. State education funding has not kept up with school district expenses, while new requirements such as the READ Act literacy initiative to employee leave policies adds pressure to local budgets.

The ballot question represents the lowest dollar amount per pupil of any Minnesota school district ballot question this year, which is an indicator that the school board considers the balance of impact on the taxpayer and student learning opportunities. The school board also understands the goal is not to expand programming, but to maintain high quality instruction, smaller class sizes, and student support services for our thriving community. 

Voters can learn more and estimate their property’s impact using the tax calculator available on the Becker Public Schools website www.becker.k12.mn.us. Polls will be open from 7 am to 8 pm on Tuesday, November 4 at the Becker Community Center.