Midland Community School District anticipates a tax rate decrease of approximately $2–$3, from nearly $16 to the $13 range. “This improvement reflects the district’s strong financial recovery over the past few years, and the fact that our cash reserve levy is now above 20%, which allows us to responsibly reduce taxes.” Shares Doug Koerperich, Midland Community School District Superintendent.
“Student enrollment plays a significant role in this picture. The more students we serve, the more funding the district receives, which helps support programs and can reduce pressure on the local tax rate. When resident students attend Midland rather than open enrolling out, those education dollars stay in our community and work for our schools – rather than our tax dollars being sent to other communities and schools.” adds Koerperich “While future adjustments may still be necessary, maintaining strong enrollment helps strengthen both our schools and the overall financial health of the district.”
The district is grateful for the leadership, fiscal discipline, and community partnership that continue to move our shared mission forward — supporting our schools and helping every student succeed.
View the notice of public hearing — proposed property tax levy
Please note the frequently asked questions below:
Q — When will the lower tax rate take effect?
A — The new rate will take effect in July 2026 and will be reflected on September and March property tax statements.
Q — How long will the lower rate last?
A — The reduced rate is guaranteed for one year. The district reviews the rate annually based on enrollment, funding, and financial conditions. Enrollment plays an important role. When more students attend our schools, funding increases and helps support a lower local tax rate. When resident students enroll elsewhere, those education dollars follow them.
Q — Who determines the tax rate?
A — The tax rate is largely determined by the state aid formula and related state requirements, with the board formally approving it each year.
Q — Will the lower tax rate affect class sizes or services?
A — Class sizes and services are influenced by enrollment levels, not the tax rate itself. Declining enrollment can place pressure on programs and, over time, may require higher taxes to maintain services.
Q — How does this change affect staff salaries or program funding?
A — Salaries and program funding are driven primarily by enrollment and State Supplemental Aid (often called allowable growth), rather than the local tax rate.
Q — Is the district lowering taxes because it has excess funds?
A — The district’s goal is to stabilize the tax rate while maintaining strong financial health. Responsible budgeting and enrollment trends make this reduction possible, though future rates will continue to depend on funding and enrollment.
Q — What is the district doing to retain and attract students?
A — The district takes pride in small class sizes, a wide range of academic and co-curricular offerings such as a highly recognized FFA program, and a full range of extracurricular activities — all within modern facilities staffed by caring professionals. Midland provides personalized support, honors each student’s unique path to success, and is strengthened by exceptional community support and a strong family atmosphere. District leadership and staff remain committed to building on this success, continually improving in response to the needs of students and families while maintaining a strong focus on fiscal responsibility.