Question 1

Why is the Osborn School District putting these overrides on the ballot?

Accepted Answer

For decades, our community has repeatedly supported the Osborn overrides to give our local schools the resources they need and keep our neighborhoods strong. Per Arizona law, they must be renewed by voters every few years.

Question 2

What’s the difference between an M&O and DAA Override?

Accepted Answer

The Maintenance & Operations (M&O) override allows the Osborn School District to fund important ongoing programs like art, music, PE, gifted education, teacher salaries, and full-day kindergarten. The District Additional Assistance (DAA) override can only be spent on one-time purchases like textbooks, technology, and specialized classroom equipment for classes like art, music, science, and PE.

Question 3

What will the override measures support?

Accepted Answer

Both overrides support important programs in our schools:

The Maintenance & Operations (M&O) Override funds:
Lower class sizes so that students get the individualized attention they need
Teacher salaries, so that Osborn can recruit and retain the best staff
Full Day Kindergarten
Special area classes like art, PE, music, gifted education, and dual language programs

The District Additional Assistance (DAA) Override funds:
Textbooks, instructional software, and other important learning materials
Specialized classrooms and equipment for classes like art, music, science, and PE
Technology for students and staff

Question 4

How will these overrides affect my taxes?

Accepted Answer

Because the M&O Override is a continuation of an existing override, it will not increase taxes for residents. The DAA Override is a slight increase in funding and is expected to cost the average Osborn homeowner an additional $1.33 per month.

Question 5

Why should I participate in this election?

Accepted Answer

As the state government continues to underfund local public schools, overrides like these are critical in allowing the district to meet students’ educational needs. The overrides continue funding for important programs that families rely on.

Question 6

How does this benefit my community?

Accepted Answer

Better schools not only provide better lives for students and families - they raise property values, improve our workforce, and strengthen the local economy. By voting yes on the Osborn Elementary School District override measure, you can help create a brighter future for our neighborhoods.

Question 7

What will happen if the override doesn’t pass?

Accepted Answer

Without these override measures, the Osborn Elementary School District will likely be required to cut programs for students, not be able to offer competitive salaries required to retain and recruit great teachers and staff, and increase class sizes.

Question 8

How can I be sure the Osborn Elementary School District will use the override funds responsibly?

Accepted Answer

Funds raised by the override are subject to strict accountability requirements to prevent wasteful spending. This measure requires independent audits and public expenditure reports so we can make sure school officials are accountable, keeping their promises, and using our tax dollars effectively. The Osborn Elementary School District has received a Certificate of Excellence for transparent financial reporting, balanced budgets, and independent oversight.

Question 9

When will the Osborn overrides be on the ballot?

Accepted Answer

The override measure will be on the ballot this year for the November 3rd election. Ballots will be mailed to voters on October 7th. To check the status of your ballot or find an in-person voting location, visit Maricopa.Vote

Frequently Asked Questions about the Osborn Overrides