Vote YES on Nov. 4 to protect students, educators and our city’s future.
About the Referendum
What’s on the ballot this fall?
Saint Paul voters have the chance to approve a referendum that would bring in $37.2 million in local funding each year for the next decade.
Without it, our schools face deeper cuts — including larger class sizes, fewer educators, and programming losses for students.
Why This Matters Now
Budget Cuts
Budgets are maxed out. SPPS faced a $51.1 million shortfall this year. There’s nothing left to cut without harming students.
Student Needs
Students need more, not less. After pandemic disruptions, kids need strong support systems and smaller class sizes to thrive.
Community Support
Saint Paul is ready to step up – yet again. Nearly 75% of residents say they’re willing to increase property taxes to increase funding for our schools. Let’s turn that support into action.
What’s Causing the Gap
The funding shortfall drivers
- State funding hasn’t kept up with inflation.
For over 20 years, state funding has fallen behind. That’s a $50+ million gap for SPPS this school year. - Federal COVID relief dollars have expired.
These temporary funds helped support after-school programs, mental health supports, and learning specialists. That money is gone. - Special education is underfunded.
Last year, SPPS was shortchanged by tens of millions in promised federal special education funding.
What Will it Cost?
About $26/month for the average homeowner — less than $1 a day to protect our schools and support our kids.
Get Involved
Take action with SPFE
- Campaign launch and door knock
Sept. 20 at 1 p.m.
Meet at SPFE headquarters: 23 Empire Drive, Saint Paul - Sign up for campaign updates
- Share your support on social media
Use hashtags #StepUpForSPPS and #VoteYesSPPS
Tag @spfe28 and @spps_news
Let’s Step Up — Again
We all want strong schools and opportunities for every child. By voting YES this November, we can protect what matters most and make sure every student — no matter their background — has the tools they need to succeed.