As Hillsborough County faces a pressing teacher shortage, the need for sustainable funding through the Hillsborough County Millage has never been more critical. With the support of our community in the November 2024 vote, we can address this issue and enhance educational outcomes for our students.
Teacher Shortages in Hillsborough County
Hillsborough County is grappling with a significant teacher shortage that threatens the quality of education provided to its students. Over the past few years, many educators have left the profession due to low salaries, increased workloads, and lack of resources.
At the beginning of the 2023 school year, 10,000 students started without full-time teachers, with 450 vacancies still unfilled as of October 2024. This exodus has resulted in larger class sizes and fewer personalized learning opportunities for students.
Hillsborough Education Foundation is committed to helping mitigate these challenges by supporting the proposed Hillsborough County Millage for Public School Students, which will provide an estimated $6,000 supplement for teachers and $3,000 for support staff, and would provide the necessary financial resources to ensure that our schools are staffed with dedicated educators who can foster an environment conducive to learning.
Disadvantages Compared to Surrounding Counties
Hillsborough County’s educational system is at a disadvantage compared to surrounding counties, which benefit from more substantial funding sources. Neighboring counties have leveraged local millage to enhance their educational programs, offering competitive salaries and comprehensive support to their teachers.
As a result, they can attract and retain talent more effectively. Pinellas County has had its millage in place for 20 years and recently renewed it in 2020. If Hillsborough County does not secure similar funding through the millage, the gap will continue to widen, leaving our students at a disadvantage. Hillsborough Education Foundation highlights the urgent need for community support to level the playing field and ensure our students receive the quality education they deserve.
Impact on Student Success
The direct link between funding and student success in Hillsborough County cannot be overstated. Adequate funding allows for smaller class sizes, access to advanced learning materials, and enrichment programs that enhance the educational experience. Without the millage, critical programs such as STEM initiatives and arts education are at risk. Furthermore, 92% of the projected $177 million raised will go towards teacher salaries, enabling the county to hire and retain more teachers.
Research shows that when students are engaged and supported, their academic performance improves, leading to higher graduation rates and better preparedness for post-secondary opportunities. Supporting the millage is an investment in student success in Hillsborough County, ensuring that every child has the chance to thrive in a nurturing educational environment.
Community and Economic Benefits
Investing in education through the Hillsborough County Millage also has significant community and economic benefits. A well-educated workforce is vital for attracting businesses and fostering economic growth in our region. When students succeed, they contribute to a more vibrant local economy, decreasing reliance on social services and increasing community stability. Moreover, enhancing educational outcomes leads to a more informed citizenry, which benefits society as a whole.
Supporting this initiative, with its modest cost to the average homeowner of about $281 annually, Hillsborough Education Foundation emphasizes that by supporting the millage, we are not only investing in our children but also in the future of our community.
Take Action Today
We encourage every member of the community to advocate for the Hillsborough County Millage. Attend local meetings, discuss the importance of this funding with your friends and family, and make your voice heard. Finally, let’s ensure that our schools receive the support they need to thrive and that our students have the opportunities they deserve by voting in favor of the millage in November 2024.