When you make an eligible purchase in Hillsborough County, half a penny of each dollar goes toward local public school improvements. While an amount that small might seem insignificant, it has added up fast.
Since 2018, the half-penny sales tax has helped provide new roofs, air conditioning, safety improvements, and classroom technology for schools throughout our county. When people come together to support Tampa Bay educational initiatives like the half-penny tax, local schools can receive the academic support in Hillsborough County they need to empower student success.
What Is the Half-Penny Tax?
In November 2018, Hillsborough County residents voted in favor of the half-penny sales tax to help improve local public school facilities. Also referred to as the Half-Penny Promise, this tax has since provided dedicated funding to support the facility, safety, and technology needs of schools across the district.
The money raised through the tax can only be used for specific school improvement projects and cannot be used for salaries or other everyday school expenses, helping ensure the funds go directly toward improving school facilities for students and teachers.
How the Funds Support Schools
Half-penny sales tax funds have been able to support a variety of projects, including:
- Air conditioning: Replacing and repairing older A/C systems
- Roofs: Replacing old or leaking roofs
- Safety and security: Improving school entrances and security systems
- Classroom technology: Updating classroom devices and technology
- Building upkeep: Painting, waterproofing, elevator upgrades, and parking lot repairs
- Outdoor and athletic spaces: New playgrounds, updated tracks, and turf fields
These improvements help create better learning spaces for students and strengthen academic support in Hillsborough County.
The Impact Across Hillsborough County
Over the years, those extra half-pennies have added up to valuable improvements for schools across our community.
In fact, Hillsborough County Public Schools reported that as of April 2026, more than $1.259 billion had been invested in schools through the half-penny sales tax program. Each investment helps create a stronger place for students to learn, teachers to inspire, and our school communities to grow.
How the Half-Penny Tax Supports Hillsborough County Schools
Sometimes, all it takes is one person believing in a student to help them see what they are capable of. Through our Take Stock in Children mentoring program, Hillsborough Education Foundation helps students build the confidence they need to bridge the gap toward a successful future.
Become a mentor today and help us create positive change for students throughout our community.
Why Community Awareness Matters
Supporting public education starts with understanding the decisions that affect schools within the area. Funding decisions can impact the resources available to schools as well as the environments where students learn and teachers work.
With greater awareness, our community can come together to advocate for stronger schools and a brighter future for each student.
Building a Brighter Future for Hillsborough County Schools
Half a penny might not seem like much, but over time, it has added up to something truly special for our schools.
Hillsborough County voters will have the opportunity to vote on the renewal of the school half-penny tax on the November 3, 2026 General Election ballot. Staying informed about Tampa Bay educational initiatives like this is essential to understanding the decisions being made in our community and how they might affect our local schools.
For more ways to support our community, learn how you can get involved and help us build the future of public education!
