In November 2024, voters can continue supporting local schools by voting to approve a half-penny sales tax. This would take effect in 2026 after the full penny sales tax expires in 2025.

If approved by voters, these funds will help purchase, maintain, and repair/refurbish facilities and equipment to create a positive learning environment for Palm Beach County students. With over 30% of the School District’s 30 million square feet of facilities being more than 30 years old, the District needs to replace aging roofs, renovate restrooms, and upgrade lighting and HVAC systems throughout local schools. Additionally, funds from this half-penny measure would enhance school security, purchase buses, and update technology for students and teachers.

All District-operated and charter schools in Palm Beach County will benefit from this measure, and each school will receive School Enhancement Funds for projects decided by their School Advisory Council.

The School District has a strong history of “Promises Made, Promises Kept.” The Independent Sales Surtax Oversight Committee ensures all funds spent align with the ballot language approved by the voters.

What Palm Beach County Voters Will See on Their Ballots

To support educational opportunities for students by upgrading and enhancing safety and security of schools; classroom technology and equipment, school buildings and facilities, and school buses, for Palm Beach County traditional public and charter public schools; shall the School Board levy a one-half cent sales surtax beginning January 1, 2026 and, by law, automatically ending December 31, 2035, with oversight of all funds by an independent committee of citizens and experts?

      _____ FOR THE ONE-HALF CENT TAX
      _____ AGAINST THE ONE-HALF CENT TAX

If approved by voters, this “Strong Schools, Strong Communities” measure is anticipated to generate $200 million annually ($2 billion over 10 years for District-operated schools and charter schools) to support school security, technology, facilities, and infrastructure. 

The SCHOOL CAPITAL OUTLAY SURTAX can only be spent on capital projects, not operational needs. The surtax cannot be spent on teacher salaries.

District initiatives total approximately $1.8 billion (excluding charter schools) and include: improvements to buildings, facilities, equipment, classroom technology, and school buses.

All District schools will benefit from repairs, equipment, and/or technology upgrades.

Visit the 2016 Penny Sales Tax page for a list of previous projects and updates.