The School District of Manatee County is set to enhance its capital projects significantly, thanks to a robust funding strategy discussed during the School Board Workshop on May 23, 2025. The district has secured a total of $320 million through various state and local funding sources, aimed at improving educational facilities across the region.

Key funding sources include Advalorem property taxes, which are shared with charter schools, and capital outlay and debt service funds that support projects on the board-approved priority list. Additionally, the district benefits from Public Education Capital Outlay (PECO) funds, primarily allocated for charter school capital expenditures, and has also received PECO grants for safety improvements.

In a notable move, the district secured $170 million in 2023 and an additional $150 million in early 2025 through certificates of participation for construction projects, including two new elementary schools. Local revenues also contribute to the funding pool, with income from interest on investments, fuel taxes, and sales tax impacting the district's financial landscape.

During the meeting, board members discussed the use of general fund resources for repairs at Anna Maria Elementary following Hurricane Helene. While these repairs were funded through the general fund, there is hope for reimbursement from FEMA, although such reimbursements can take two to three years to process.

This comprehensive funding approach not only underscores the district's commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure but also highlights the ongoing challenges of securing timely financial support for recovery efforts. As the district moves forward with these projects, the community can expect significant improvements in local educational facilities in the coming years.