In November 2010, Orange County voters approved a 1 mill property tax increase for a period of four years. The ballot question asked simply – do you want to preserve academic programs, retain highly-qualified teachers, and protect arts, athletics, and student activities? Thanks to the support of our voters, the students of Orange County are the big winners. While per-pupil funding statewide is at its lowest level in more than five years, with the additional 1 mill we are able to maintain a high level of service.
In July 2007, budgeted funding per student in Orange County was $7,309.23 for the following school year (2007-2008). In July 2012, budgeted funding per student for 2012-2013 was $6,346.25 per student.
Here is where the 1 mill was spent in the school year 2011-2012.
| Preserve academic programs and retain 734 highly-qualified teachers | $44,060,795 |
| Protect arts (music, art, drama) | Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â $31,700,365 |
| Protect athletics | Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â $5,435,614 |
| Protect student activities | Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â $1,616,920 |
| Total | Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â $82,813,694 |
