Mount Vernon schools plan focuses on safe, modern and future-ready facilities

The Mount Vernon City Schools Board of Education has taken an important first step toward placing a 1% earned income tax on the May election ballot to support the district’s segmented Master Facility Plan — a long-term strategy focused on improving school facilities across the district.

The facilities plan includes the construction of three new elementary schools and the renovation of Mount Vernon High School, including a new auditorium and expanded music and cafeteria spaces. An earned income tax applies only to wages and self-employment income and does not apply to pensions, Social Security, retirement income, or investment earnings.

This comprehensive facilities plan was developed over more than a year with guidance from the district’s Facility Advisory Committee, whose work focused on five key priorities:

● Improving school safety

● Increasing operational efficiency

● Meeting the needs of diverse learners

● Supporting modern teaching and learning practices

● Addressing aging infrastructure

The district is partnering with the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC), which is expected to contribute approximately 36% of eligible project costs, helping to leverage state resources in support of locally identified facility needs.

After careful consideration, the Board made the decision this summer to delay placing the measure on the ballot, allowing time for updated financial information and improved economic conditions.

Looking ahead, the district will continue providing factual, informational updates about the facilities plan in advance of the May election. Additional details will be shared through district communications and local media outlets.

The board’s action reflects a shared commitment to long-term planning and responsible stewardship of community resources. This represents an exciting opportunity to strengthen educational environments in ways that will serve students today and for generations to come — ensuring Mount Vernon City Schools remain a place where learning, safety, and opportunity continue to grow.