Guilford County, N.C. – The sales tax referendum, which will provide a sustainable source of funding for Guilford County Schools (GCS) educators, rural fire departments, community colleges and local municipalities, has passed.
Voters approved the tax with 129,732 votes in favor, or 62.85% approval, a significant increase from 2024, 2020 and 2008 which saw 40.17%, 30.07% and 30.51% approval, respectively. When the sales tax takes effect in April 2027, the county sales tax will increase from 6.75% to 7%, amounting to one penny on a $4 purchase, but will not be applied to gas, groceries, vehicles, medications or certain medical devices.
“Our students are watching, and this week, Guilford County has given them a powerful lesson in using their voice for their community,” Superintendent Dr. Whitney Oakley stated. “I am immensely grateful to the nearly 130,000 voters, and poll volunteers who made their voices heard and demonstrated their commitment to our educators, first responders, community college and the future of Guilford County. This is what civic engagement looks like in action."
Retaining and attracting quality educators is essential for providing a high-quality education to students. With the approval of the sales tax, Guilford County now joins several other counties across the state who allocate local tax revenue for educator supplements. The portion of the new sales tax that will be allotted to GCS will be distributed to employees paid on the teacher salary schedule and will help the district remain competitive when recruiting highly qualified educators.
Looking ahead, GCS will continue advocating at both the state and local levels for increased compensation. This advocacy includes salary increases for classified employees, which is a top priority in the Board of Education's Legislative Agenda.
This content is sourced from
Guilford County Schools
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