MCCSC released its Referendum Impact Report, detailing how $45 million has been invested into local schools. (WFIU/WTIU News)
The Monroe County Community School Corp. reported more investments into early learning, teacher pay and other costs for students.
MCCSC released its Referendum Impact Report Tuesday after local voters approved additional funding in 2022 and 2023, about $45 million over the past two years.
The funding went towards expanding preschool, salary increases, covering college prep costs, offering more enrichment and providing free school supplies.
Markay L. Winston, MCCSC superintendent, said in a press release MCCSC is “deeply appreciative to voters.”
"This funding has been transformative, especially for our youngest learners and their families,” Winston said. “The expansion of our Pre-K program has been a true difference-maker for families, removing financial barriers and providing quality early education.”
With a $6.2 million investment, MCCSC reported it doubled the number of families enrolled in pre-K for 4-year-olds after the referendum. Sixty-eight percent enrolled for free, and the rest enrolled for half-cost or less. The corporation also added certified teachers and purchased new play materials to support the curriculum.
MCCSC plans to expand access to 3-year-old preschool programs.
The corporation reported investing about $34.5 million to teacher and staff salaries, increasing base pay by $4,500. Hourly support staff also received raises .
Almost $4 million went toward special programs such as performance art enrichment and college prep programs. MCCSC covered costs for dual credit courses, Advanced Placement exams and some career certification exams, it said.
More than $912,000 covered free school supplies, including notebooks, headphones and pencils.
Aubrey is our higher education reporter and a Report For America corps member. Contact her at aubmwrig@iu.edu or follow her on X @aubreymwright.
