Special Education Millage Renewal
Livingston County Educational Services Agency
Ensuring Access to Essential Services
I. The Challenge
The Livingston County Educational Services Agency engaged TR to support their special education millage renewal. In the previous election, this vital funding measure had barely survived, passing by only 6 votes—a razor-thin margin that highlighted the urgent need for improved public awareness and support. With essential special education services hanging in the balance, the ESA needed a comprehensive public awareness campaign to educate voters about the millage's importance and secure broader community backing.
II. The Response
Our approach emphasized creating clear, accessible information about special education services and their impact on local families. We prioritized positive, shareable social media designs and posters, and factual communication to build trust and understanding within the community about why this millage was essential for supporting students.
III. Efforts Included
Visually Compelling Toolkit:
Development of professionally designed materials that presented legally sound, easy-to-understand information about the millage and special education services.
Distribution Strategy and Support:
Delivery of a comprehensive distribution plan to reach voters across multiple touchpoints and demographics.
Legally Sound Messaging:
Creation of clear, compelling messaging that highlighted the real-world impact of special education services on students and families without crossing the lines around political advocacy.
IV. The Results
The campaign achieved remarkable success, the special education millage passed with 60% of the vote—a dramatic improvement from the previous 6-vote margin. This outcome secured essential funding for special education services while demonstrating the power of effective public education and community engagement in building sustainable support for critical educational initiatives.
Truscott Rossman’s Value Proposition
Truscott Rossman’s expertise in bipartisan communication and strategic messaging proved critical in ensuring continued access to essential special education services in Livingston County. Our firm remains committed to helping organizations navigate complex public challenges with clarity and effectiveness.