Board of Education votes to put bond issue on ballot
The Wichita Board of Education approved a resolution authorizing a bond election on May 6, 2008. The $350 million bond issue would address many needs including:
- additional classrooms to accommodate growth and create smaller class sizes;
- build six new schools including two high schools;
- upgrade fine arts and athletic facilities;
- and would support the end of busing for desegregation with renovations to schools in the AAA area.
A $350 million bond issue would mean $40.25 a year on a $100,000 home. Click here to see a summary report presented to the Board on February 11.
“The kids who attend the Wichita Public Schools deserve state-of-the-art facilities,” said Superintendent Winston Brooks. “The odds are really good that our students will be running this community in the future and we need to give them the best education possible in the best facilities.”
"I know our community supports children," said Board of Education President Connie Dietz. "I would invite people to come to our buildings and see the needs."
"If we aren't investing in our children and investing in our community, what are we investing in?" asked Lanora Nolan. "The problems will still be there and if we don't correct them, they will be bigger in the future."
"Public education is not 'what's in it for me' it's 'what's in it for us,'" said Board of Education Vice President Lynn Rogers. "Generations before us have paid for us and our children to grow and be successful, and now it's our turn."
A Community Steering Team identified district-wide needs ranging between $468 – $533 million. The Board pared it down to $350 million. The remaining needs would be addressed by capital outlay funds and the district would apply for $12 - $15 million in funds from FEMA for safe rooms.
More information on the Facilities Master Plan can be found on the district’s website.
February 11, 2008