The Impact of the Pottawatomie County Half-Cent Sales Tax on Bethel Public Schools

In November 2015, citizens of Pottawatomie County demonstrated their commitment to local education by voting to approve an increase to the county tax rate of one-half cent on every dollar spent. The revenue generated from this half-cent sales tax is collected and overseen by the Pottawatomie County Commissioners and is distributed to every school district in the county based on student enrollment numbers. When the measure passed, it was estimated that the fund would generate $286 per student annually for each district. This funding model provides equitable support across the county’s school systems, allowing them to address unique needs.

The Board of Education in each school district determines how these funds are spent, with one restriction: they cannot be used to pay salaries. At Bethel Public Schools, the Board of Education has prioritized capital improvements, technology upgrades, safety measures, and transportation enhancements. Revenue collection began in July 2016, and the measure is set to expire at the end of June 2026. However, there is strong hope among schools that citizens will vote to extend or make permanent this vital funding source, with a county resolution and vote expected in mid-2025.

As of October 2024, Bethel Public Schools has received over $3.7 million from this program. These funds have enabled the district to undertake projects and purchases that would have otherwise been unattainable, ensuring enhanced educational opportunities and infrastructure for students and staff alike.

Projects and Purchases Funded by the Half-Cent Sales Tax

1. Technology Enhancements

   • Purchased technology for classrooms across all district building sites, improving digital learning and instructional capabilities.

2. Transportation Upgrades

   • Acquired new school buses for both daily routes and extracurricular activities, ensuring safer and more reliable transportation.

3. Textbook Purchases

   • Supplied new textbooks for Bethel Elementary and Bethel Middle School, enriching the educational resources available to students.

4. Athletic and Extracurricular Support

   • Purchased new marching band uniforms for the Bethel High School band, enhancing their performance experience and school spirit.

   • Purchased new football uniforms for the Bethel High School football team, providing updated equipment for student-athletes.

5. Utility Costs

   • Paid for district utilities over multiple school years, alleviating budget constraints and redirecting funds toward student-focused initiatives.

6. Facility Improvements

   • Installed a new HVAC system in the Bethel Activity Center, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment for school events and activities.

Looking Ahead

The Pottawatomie County Half-Cent Sales Tax has proven to be a transformative source of funding for Bethel Public Schools and other districts throughout the county. With its current expiration date approaching in June 2026, it is crucial for citizens to recognize the ongoing need for this support. By voting in 2025 to extend or make this tax permanent, we can ensure continued investment in our schools, fostering a brighter future for our students and community.

Your support matters. Please consider voting to maintain this essential funding source, and thank you for standing with Bethel Public Schools!