The School District 145 Board of Education approved a resolution calling for a School Bond Election to provide necessary funding for improvements to technology, safety and security, and district facilities. The bond election will occur on the November 4, 2014 General Election ballot.
The Board of Education and District 145 provide the information on our website to equip all stakeholders with key information about the school bond election and proposed projects.
Frequently Asked Questions for the proposed projects and school bond election:
How did the Board of Education determine the list of identified projects?
Fifteen public school board meetings were held since October 2012, involving district patrons for the specific purpose of developing a direction for the school district. The architectural firm DLR Group conducted a facility study in 2013. The facility study was reviewed by a citizen advisory group, and recommendations were given to the school board . After nearly two years of conversations, planning, meetings, and discussion by board members regarding the future needs of our district, the Board of Education passed a resolution on August 4, 2014, calling for a bond issue on the November 4 General Election.
What is the purpose of the bond issue?
The Community Advisory Groups emphasized the need to improve both technology, and safety/security in our schools. The bond issue would allow a significant upgrade to the district technology infrastructure and equipment. Students and staff would have substantially greater access to digital curricular content, information and resources for instructional purposes. It would also provide an integrated security and communications system to provide safer facilities. Facility improvements would occur at Eagle Elementary, Hamlow Elementary, Waverly Intermediate School, and Waverly High School to maintain a quality learning environment.
What is the student enrollment and do we have enough space in our buildings?
District 145 student population since 1990 has grown steadily, at an average annual rate of 1%. The student enrollment in 1990 was 1,519. In 2005, when voters approved a bond issue to build Waverly Middle School, student enrollment was 1,632. In 2014, K-12 enrollment exceeds 1,900 students. Our enrollment is projected to grow to 2,100 students by 2020. Our district facilities have the capacity to accommodate the future growth.
Will there be an opportunity for me to learn more about the bond issue?
Yes, public meetings are scheduled at Waverly High School on Tuesday, September 16 in the auditorium, and at Eagle Elementary on Monday, September 22 in the main commons area. Both meetings will begin at 7:00pm. Additional presentations will be scheduled throughout the district. Specific questions may be directed to the superintendent.
What are the specific projects included with the bond issue?
Click here to view another article on our website that lists the specific projects.
What are the past major facility projects, and when did they occur?
Click to view "History of School Buildings"
What is the total amount for the bond issue?
The bond referendum seeks voter approval on November 4 for issuance of bonds not to exceed $15,580,000 to complete district improvements in technology, safety, security, and facilities.
Will the bond issue raise my taxes?
Property valuations and property taxes impact each individual property owner differently. If the schol bond issue passes in 2014, the total tax levy will decrease because there is an increase in overall district property valuation. School districts must set their tax levy in October, which is prior to November election. In 2015, the total levy is estimated to increase $0.015 and in 2016, it is estimated the levy would increase an additional $0.035. In 2017, it is projected the levy would stay at the same level as 2016, or decrease if district property values increase.
