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  3. Ballot Basics

Ballot Basics

Ballot Basics with Dr. Boyer & Dr. Huntley

Elections can be confusing, and we want to make sure you have all the facts about the April 8 ballot measures. That’s why Dr. Boyer and Dr. Huntley are breaking it all down in our new video series: Ballot Basics!

Introduction to Ballot Basics 🎥

Elections can be confusing, and we want to make sure you have all the facts about the April 8 ballot measures. That’s why Dr. Boyer and Dr. Huntley are breaking it all down in our new video series: Ballot Basics! 

Why is an Operating Levy Increase Necessary? 💰

Carthage R-9 has been stretching every dollar, but rising costs mean we need to make a change. What does an operating levy increase cover? Think salaries, classroom supplies, and keeping our schools running smoothly.

 

Financial Reserves – What You Need to Know 💵

How much does Carthage R-9 have in financial reserves, and how does that compare to other districts? Dr. Boyer & Dr. Huntley break it down in this episode of Ballot Basics!

 

Budget Cuts – Doing More with Less ✂️

We’ve already made tough budget cuts to keep our district financially responsible. Find out what we’ve done so far and why additional funding is still needed.

 

Staff Impacts – Investing in Our Educators 🍎

Teachers and staff are the backbone of our schools. How will this operating levy increase help recruit and retain quality educators? Find out in this episode of Ballot Basics.

 

 

State Support – How Much Does Missouri Fund Schools? 🏛️

Missouri ranks near the bottom in public education funding. What does that mean for Carthage R-9? Get the facts about state support for our schools.

 

 

Minimum Wage – Why It Matters for Schools 💵

Rising minimum wage laws impact our budget. How does this affect school staffing and operations? Find out in Episode 7 of Ballot Basics.

 

 

Sports Betting – Will It Fund Schools? 💲

With sports betting now legal in Missouri, some wonder if it will help fund public schools. The answer may surprise you! Find out the truth in Episode 8.

 

 

Taxpayer Cost – What Will This Cost Me? 🏡

The big question: How much will these ballot measures cost taxpayers? We break it down in simple terms in Episode 9 of Ballot Basics.

 

 

Checks & Balances – Who Oversees the Finances? 🔍

Is the district audited? What financial safeguards are in place? Learn about the checks and balances that ensure responsible spending.

 

 

Assessment Freeze – Help for Senior Citizens 🏡

Did you know Missouri has a Senior Tax Assessment Freeze? Find out how this helps senior citizens on fixed incomes.

 

 

Bond Overview – What’s on the Ballot? 📜

What is a bond issue, and what does it mean for Carthage schools? Get a full overview in Episode 12 of Ballot Basics!

 

What Are the Benefits of a New Auditorium? 🎭

Why does Carthage High School need a new auditorium on campus? This episode of Ballot Basics explains how a new space will benefit students, staff, and the community — from performances and assemblies to accessibility and safety.

🏀Gym Usage – Can It Be Used for Performances? 🎭

Could the new gym double as a performance space? We answer that question in Episode 14 of Ballot Basics.

 

JROTC – How Does This Bond Help the Program? 🎖️

Expanding opportunities for our students is a priority! Find out how this bond measure will support the JROTC program.

 

JROTC – A Legacy of Leadership⭐ 

In this special Ballot Basics episode, Dr. Boyer sits down with retired U.S. Army 1st Lieutenant Ron Ross—a Carthage graduate, JROTC member, and proud community supporter.

They talk about Mr. Ross’s experiences in JROTC, both in high school and college, and how the program instilled values like Duty, Honor, Country. Learn how JROTC builds leadership, discipline, and purpose in our students—on and off campus.

Auditorium Size – How Was It Determined? 🎤

How did we decide on the size of the new auditorium? See the research and reasoning behind this decision in Episode 16.

Safe Room – Will the Auditorium Have One? 🌪️

Safety matters! Find out if the new auditorium will include a tornado-safe room and why that’s important.

Current Auditorium – Is It Maintained? 🎤

What’s the condition of the current auditorium at the Sixth Grade Center, and why is a new one needed? Get the facts in Episode 18.

Ballot Basics – En Español 🎥

In this episode of Ballot Basics, Carthage graduate and Sixth Grade Center team member Missael Maturino breaks down both April 8 ballot measures in Spanish — helping ensure all of our Carthage families have access to the information they need to feel confident and prepared to go to the polls.

Thank You & What’s Next 💬

In this final episode of Ballot Basics, Dr. Boyer and Dr. Huntley reflect on the April 8 election and take a moment to thank the Carthage community for engaging, asking questions, and supporting our schools through this process.

They also share a look at what comes next—how we’ll continue working together to support students, staff, and progress across the district.