Voters in Marshall and Tyler counties headed to the polls Saturday for the special election on school renewal levies. Historically, both of those levies have passed since the 1950s.

School board members from both counties said they are hoping for a strong turnout, and voters said it's a decision that will affect everyone in the community, not just children.

"I think it's very important that we all exercise our right to vote. These issues are very important, especially to our county now," said Darla Beaver, a Marshall County resident.

In Marshall County, school leaders said it won't raise the tax rate, and it covers day-to-day operations, like textbooks, lunch programs and employee training.

"We've had a lot of positive comments, and we hope that the county comes out and supports the students that we have here in Marshall County," said Beth Phillips, a school board member.

According to school officials in Tyler County, the renewal levy would generate nearly $2.5 million for students and employees to support their facilities. Whether voters mark a yes or no on the ballot, they said the decision impacts everyone.

"It makes a difference to not only our school children, but it makes a big difference to our senior citizens," said Beaver.

Marshall County school board members said if their levy fails, they plan to regroup.

"We would have to meet with our chief financial officer, and we would have to look at the budget as it is now, see what is required by state, what our requirements are that we have to meet. Then, we would just have to take it from there," said Phillips.

The polls close at 7:30 p.m. and immediately after the votes will be tallied.

Look for the Marshall County and Tyler County renewal levy results on NEWS9 Tonight at 11.