Accountability is built into the structure of how millage funds are managed: The district’s independent Audit Advisory Committee, a citizen committee of finance and accounting professionals, oversees the district’s use of this revenue. This committee ensures the funds are being used as promised and reports annually to the School Board.

Addtionally:

DCPS holds an investment-grade bond rating, which requires ongoing independent financial scrutiny by external rating agencies.

All millage expenditures are publicly reported and subject to Florida Auditor General review.

The millage must also be renewed by voters every four years — the renewal requirement itself is an accountability mechanism that forces the district to demonstrate results before asking voters to continue their investment.

The district’s financial data and audits are fully available to the public on its Financial Transparency webpage.

District Referendum FAQs 2026

Referendum 101

Why is the school board asking voters to renew the 1-mill voluntary ad valorem tax?

Is this a tax increase?

What is the exact ballot language?

How much money will the 1 mill bring into the district and for how long?

What will happen if the millage does not pass in November 2026?

How many other districts have proposed and passed similar measures?

If the state is asking voters to approve a constitutional amendment to cut or end property taxes, why do we need this 1 mill?

Referendum – Impact on Teachers and Schools

How has the voluntary 1 mill impacted our community, our schools and our students?

Has the 1 mill impacted teacher recruitment and retention?

Where does Duval County rank in teacher salaries?

How much of a raise will that mean for the average teacher?

Will any of this money go to pay school board members or district administrators?

Referendum – Finance and Accountability

How will the money be spent?

How do voters know the funds will be spent as promised?

How much will it cost the taxpayers?

Why isn’t there enough money to pay out of operations budget?

You also passed a half-penny sales tax bringing in significant funding that will continue for several more years. Isn’t that enough?

Why should property owners who do not have children in Duval County Schools agree to pay more?

Why are charter schools getting a share of this money?