An operating referendum funds educational programs, the people to deliver those programs, educational materials, building maintenance, transportation, and other expenses to fund the daily building and district operations. 

Capital Referendums fund building construction, facility upgrades and renovations. Operating Referendums fund salaries, benefits, building maintenance, materials, programs, transportation, and other expenses to fund the daily operations. Capital and operating referendum funds cannot be used interchangeably.

District 34 administration and Citizen's Finance Advisory Committee (CFAC) had projected deficit spending starting in 2026. Thanks to budgetary efficiencies and reductions, the deficit spending was pushed to 2027. To get ahead of the projected deficit, the District is asking voters to consider an operating rate ballot question to raise operating revenue. 

In 2020, the district went out for a capital referendum to build additions to make room for Full-Day Kindergarten, improve infrastructure, and renovate all learning spaces. The 2024 operating referendum supports our operating funds. Operating dollars fund salaries, benefits, building maintenance, materials, programs, transportation, and other expenses to fund the daily operations. Capital and operating funds cannot be used interchangeably.