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Text promoting a November 3, 2026 referendum and the %22Lift Up Learning%22 initiative overlays a blurred background of children playing in a classroom.

Duluth is a special place

Community members here recognize the benefits of education for lifelong learners. Duluth residents greatly appreciate the role education plays in the success of our rich community. At Duluth Public Schools, we’re making strong progress. Graduation rates, test scores, and enrollment are improving. We have momentum!

Financial Crisis  

While public education at Duluth Public Schools is strongly forging ahead, finances are challenging. In fact, we are quickly approaching a financial crisis. Duluth is not alone. Many other schools across the state are similarly impacted by challenges we’ve been facing for quite a few years. We’ve made $12 million in budget reductions over the last three years. Without new revenue, we’ll need to double the cuts in the next two years. We have come to the realization that cuts alone cannot solve the larger structural problem. 

“I cannot stress the gravity of our situation enough. Budget cuts alone cannot solve our larger structural financial challenges.”  
– Kelly Durick Eder, Chair, Duluth School Board

A stylized bridge with the words "LIFT UP LEARNING" in red letters is in the foreground, with the slogan "PROTECT STUDENT LEARNING PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE" below it, all set against a white background.

Two Question Referendum is Nov. 3

The school board unanimously approved an Operating Levy Referendum with two questions for the November 3 General Election. Our referendum theme is “Lift Up Learning” because if we have anything in common in Duluth, it is this strong feeling of support in the effort to educate the next generation.

Seek Information, Make an Informed Vote

A red, white, and blue "VOTE" sticker with stars and stripes is centered on a white background.

Referendum information will be coming to residents in the news media, direct mail, email, social media and this website. The superintendent and school board will be meeting with dozens of community groups. If you have a question, or are part of a group that would like to hear a brief presentation and ask questions, complete the form below. We will reach out to you soon to respond to your request.

We encourage you to gather as much information from this website, or contact us by phone (218) 336-8704 or email at referendum@isd709.org. We hope you will make an informed decision at the polls on Nov. 3.

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Prepared and paid for by Independent School District No. 709 (Duluth Public Schools), 709 Portia Johnson Drive, Duluth, MN 55811