WBRZ - Baton Rouge

ST. HELENA PARISH - A school millage on the ballot this Thuesday is definitely a hot topic in St. Helena Parish.

Fliers are being handed out and post cards are being mailed in an effort to get the community to come out and support a 25.8 mills property tax to improve the district schools.

"I think it's a little bit past due," said Donald Self, a parish resident.

The district was one of two districts in the state to receive a failing score, but last week the district received a ray of hope when it was recommended for accreditation.

"The school system needs some help. It needs some support," said Self.

If the millage passes, homeowners with a house worth $100,000 would pay $38.76 per year.
Those with homes worth are less than $75,000 would pay nothing.

Dr. Kelli Joseph, the parish school superintendent, says right now it's hard keeping teachers in the classroom because of low pay, which the millage could help change.

"We can have up to four, five teachers quit in a matter of two weeks. We'll have 20 teachers quit in a school year," Dr. Joseph said.

Parts of the tax would also go toward improving and renovating facilities in the district.

"It is absolutely something that we need. It's something that our students need, its something our community needs,"

This is the fourth attempt to pass a property tax to support schools in St Helena Parish. If it fails, a federal judge could impose a tax.