Kansas City Public Schools Propose $474 Million Bond for Improvements
Kansas City, Mo. – For the first time in nearly 60 years, Kansas City Public Schools (KCPS) are asking local voters to approve a $474 million general obligation bond (GO bond) aimed at significant improvements to the district’s aging facilities. The bond proposal was presented at the final open house on Monday night, where community members gathered at the Plaza Branch Library to learn about the district’s plans.
What is Being Proposed?
The proposed bond would raise property taxes to fund crucial upgrades across various schools, address maintenance backlogs, and pave the way for the opening of a new middle school. The district’s goals include allocating $177 million for urgent maintenance issues such as plumbing, roofing, and HVAC systems, while also addressing plans to build new schools. One of the anticipated new schools would be financed through different bonds that do not increase taxes.
Why is This Necessary?
According to KCPS Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Collier, the current state of the facilities affects students’ pride and their desire to attend school. “We want our students to have buildings that they can be proud of. It affects their sense of pride and their desire to come to school,” Collier stated. Enrollment in the school district has increased by 4 percent annually over the past three years, indicating a growing need for updated facilities to accommodate additional students.
Where and When Will Changes Occur?
The bond proposal will be presented to the school board for approval on November 20 after gathering feedback from the community. If approved, the bond will go to voters on April 8, 2025. The existing middle school structures are inconsistent, with configurations such as K-6, 6-8, and K-8 across the district. The bond aims to streamline this into a standard middle school model for grades 6-8, providing necessary academic and social-emotional services. Plans include the potential addition of a South Middle School to help accommodate the 6th graders.
Community Feedback
Residents shared their thoughts on the proposal during the open house. Margie Richcreek, a local resident and former teacher, expressed her support, stating, “It’s very important for them to be maintained, for them to be updated.” Meanwhile, youth mentor Elijah Dormeus voiced his concerns regarding the poor conditions of some schools he observed upon moving to Kansas City. He believes new facilities could positively influence students’ mental well-being, stating, “If the students have the opportunity to walk into a building that feels new, they will change their mental circumstances.”
Financial Projection for Property Tax Hike
The proposed bond would cost residents approximately $232 per year, or about 64 cents a day, until the bond is paid off, which typically takes around 20 years. The district has laid out a detailed funding plan indicating how this money would be allocated, which has evolved after several months of community meetings and workshops.
Conclusion
With the proposed bond, Kansas City Public Schools hopes to not only modernize its facilities but also to better serve its growing student population. The district is urging community members to consider the long-term benefits of the investment in education and infrastructure when the proposal heads to the ballot in 2025.
