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Prop H 2026
ELECTION DAY: AUGUST 4, 2026
ZERO-RATE-CHANGE TRANSFER
Prop H: A Zero-Rate-Change Solution to Overcome State Funding Reductions

State Funding Reductions Will Create Real Challenges for Hazelwood Students

Hazelwood School District is facing significant financial challenges due to reductions in state funding and the impact of the senior property tax freeze. The district is projected to lose approximately $4 million in revenue this year, and district leaders estimate those losses could approach $30 million over the next five years.

These revenue reductions place increasing pressure on the district's ability to maintain teachers, student programs, transportation services, and other opportunities families expect from their schools.

Without a solution, continued revenue losses could result in teacher and staff layoffs, larger class sizes, fewer student programs, and reductions in services that affect students both in and out of the classroom.

A Responsible “Zero-Rate-Change” Solution

Because of years of careful financial planning, Hazelwood School District has identified a responsible solution to address these challenges.

Prop H is a Zero-Rate-Change Transfer that reallocates a portion of the district's existing tax rate authority from the Debt Service Fund to the Operating Fund while keeping the district's overall tax levy rate unchanged.

The Operating Levy would increase by $0.30 per $100 of assessed valuation, while the Debt Service Levy would decrease by the same amount.

This approach allows Hazelwood to address projected revenue losses without increasing the district's overall tax rate.

Financial projections indicate the remaining Debt Service Levy is sufficient to meet all existing bond and debt obligations. Existing commitments remain unchanged, and the district will continue meeting its financial responsibilities.

Keeping Students First

Prop H is ultimately about protecting the educational opportunities available to Hazelwood students today.

When districts face significant revenue reductions, students often feel the impact first. Fewer teachers can lead to larger class sizes. Program reductions can limit academic, extracurricular, and enrichment opportunities. Cuts to services can affect transportation and other resources families rely on.

Prop H helps maintain classroom instruction, transportation services, student programs, extracurricular activities, and the teachers and staff who work directly with students every day.

For many students, school is where they discover interests, build relationships, participate in activities, and prepare for future opportunities. Maintaining those experiences remains one of the district's highest priorities.

Using Existing Resources to Address Today's Challenges

Hazelwood School District has planned carefully for changing financial conditions. Prop H reflects that planning by allowing the district to respond to declining state revenue without increasing the overall tax rate.

The financial challenges facing the district are real, and the potential impact on students is significant. Prop H provides a responsible, zero-rate-change solution that keeps resources focused on students, classrooms, and the opportunities that help young people succeed.