In 1997, the Escambia County School District implemented a visionary initiative − a half-cent sales tax aimed at revolutionizing the local education landscape. Over the years, this innovative funding source has become a cornerstone for the district's ambitious projects, providing crucial support for the construction of replacement schools such as A.K. Suter, Ernest Ward Middle, and Pleasant Grove Elementary School, and new schools Global Learning Academy, Kingsfield Elementary, and Beulah Middle School. The sales tax also funded renovations of existing facilities (Woodham to West Florida High School, O.J. Semmes, Ferry Pass Middle, Pensacola High School), additions, land acquisition, and advancements in technology.
Escambia County half-cent sales tax evolution
The initial implementation of the half-cent sales tax was a significant step forward for the Escambia County School District, generating an annual revenue in the range of $7 million to $8 million. As needs grew and priorities shifted, the district recognized the necessity for an expanded scope. A second sales tax referendum was modified and renewed in 2002, taking it to 2007. A pivotal moment in this evolution was the renewal in 2008, with voter approval in excess of 70%.The district brought the latest referendum to the voters four years early in 2014. It passed by a similar wide margin, clearly demonstrating the community’s confidence in the district’s management of these funds. This took effect Jan. 1, 2018 and is set to expire on Dec. 31, 2027.
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Flexibility and diversification of funding
Originally, the funds from the sales tax were restricted to classroom-related expenditures. However, the district soon realized there were broader needs that demanded attention. The scope was expanded to encompass improvements for entire schools. This shift allowed for diverse projects, including the installation of tracks, gymnasiums and covered play areas for elementary schools.
One of the strategic moves made by the Escambia County School District was to address facility disparities. This commitment led to the construction of covered play areas in every elementary school, a gymnasium in each middle school, and other improvements district wide. This approach aimed to provide uniform and high-quality facilities across the district, enhancing the overall learning environment in the county.
Facility closure and consolidation
Recognizing the financial challenges to maintaining underutilized facilities, the district strategically closed and consolidated schools where overcrowding or under enrollment was an issue. From 2002 to 2019 the district closed or consolidated 19 schools. This helped to ensure that every dollar from the half-cent sales tax was maximized for the benefit of students.
The district also had to look at older facilities. Some of the district’s school buildings were constructed in the late 1930s to early 1950s. The original A.K. Suter was constructed in 1921 and replaced on the same site in 2015. The current Myrtle Grove Elementary School building, which was built in 1938 after the original 1897 school building burned in 1935, is currently being replaced.
Strategic planning and future vision
Escambia County Public Schools has undertaken a strategic planning approach to manage the funds. This includes forward-thinking initiatives such as allocating funds for elementary, middle and high school renovations, so the district remains at the forefront of educational infrastructure.
The Half-Cent Sales Tax Watchdog group works with the district collaboratively and adds a measure of fiduciary management by the community.This committee has been providing oversight of these expenditures since the inception of the half-cent sales tax, making this initiative the only K-12 sales tax to employ this kind of collaboration and oversight.
The district faced unforeseen challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting the infusion of ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funds into facility upgrades. This was a portion of three COVID-19 relief laws, which allocated approximately $190 billion in aid to states and school districts. The urgency to improve indoor air quality became a top priority, leading to extensive replacement of outdated Heating Ventilation and Air Condition (HVAC) Systems, chillers, cooling towers, flooring, and windows. In an effort to maximize the effect of the federal funds, the sales tax revenue was used to conduct renovations in conjunction with the ESSER funded projects. Despite supply chain issues and a tight spending deadline, the district successfully invested $60 million in facility upgrades over 24 months from 2021 to 2023.
Escambia County Public Schools’ innovative use of the half-cent sales tax has transformed education in the region. From equitable facility improvements to strategic planning and adapting to external challenges, the district has showcased a commitment to providing an environment conducive to learning for every student. As the journey continues, the impact of this funding strategy will resonate for years to come, enhancing the lives of students and education in Escambia County.
Keith Wasdin is director of facilities planning for Escambia County Public Schools.
