Voters Reject Duluth School District’s Technology Referendum For Second Time

DULUTH, Minn. — For a second time, voters have rejected a proposed technology referendum Tuesday for the Duluth School District.

The levy would have provided $5.2 million annually over the next decade for learning technology, digital curriculum and security, according to the district.

Below is a press release sent out by the district Tuesday night:

Residents of Duluth Public Schools rejected a referendum on Tuesday that sought to provide $5.2 million annually for learning technology, digital curriculum, cybersecurity, career and technical education equipment, and other technology-related resources.

As of Tuesday night, preliminary vote totals stood at 5,007 in favor and 5,460 against.

“It’s not the outcome we hoped for,” said Superintendent John Magas. “We have some difficult decisions ahead, but our commitment to finding the best solutions for our students is unchanged.”

Had voters approved the referendum, the new technology levy would have provided $5.2 million annually to fund the regular repair and replacement of student devices, stronger cybersecurity, building security, and emergency response and internet systems. Approximately $500,000 annually was also slated to go directly toward industry-standard equipment and software for classes such as nursing, engineering, robotics, agriculture, and graphic design.

“The reality is that these investments are still needed if we are to give our teachers the tools they need to fully prepare students for success,” said Jill Lofald, School Board Chair. “We’re going to look closely at every option to improve these opportunities for kids.”