Aug. 24, 2026 — When Duval County voters approved a one-mill referendum in 2022, third-grade teacher Lindzee McClure says the message she heard from the community was simple: We see you. We value you.
“It felt great that the community believed in us,” McClure said. “We felt valued. We’re not in there worrying about how we’re going to pay our bills. We’re in there worrying about the kids. That’s our job. That’s what we want to do.”
McClure shares her experience in a new video featured on Duval County Public Schools’ newly launched 1 mill website: www.duvalschools.org/vote.
The website provides voters with information about the millage, which is up for renewal on the Nov. 3 ballot. Visitors can review the ballot language, frequently asked questions, information about how millage funds are used and other resources to help them understand the initiative.
Approved by Duval voters in 2022, the 1 mill referendum provided additional funding to recruit and retain teachers in response to the ongoing national teacher shortage. Funding also provided support to arts and athletic programs. Among the key information available on the website:
Teacher salary supplements averaged $8,668 in 2025-26.
Teacher retention has increased since the millage was approved, while the teacher vacancy rate has declined from 6.5% to 4.4%.
The majority of DCPS’ share of the millage supports compensation for teachers, school police and other employees. Approximately 12% supports student programming, including arts and athletics.
Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier noted the great strides that have been made since voters approved the millage in 2022.
“We are now entering our second year as an ‘A’-rated school district, with a historic 97.6% graduation rate,” Dr. Bernier said. “More than 98% of our schools are rated an ‘A,’ ‘B’ or ‘C.’ Our progress is the result of the dedication of our teachers, school leaders, students, families, and entire Team Duval community.”
As Duval voters decide whether to continue the millage, Dr. Bernier said the website will be a valuable resource to ensure they are informed.
For more information, visit www.duvalschools.org/vote.