Kansas City Voters Approve $180 Million Bond for School Improvements

Kansas City Voters Approve $180 Million Bond for School Improvements

Kansas City, Mo. — Wyandotte County voters within the Kansas City, Kansas School District (KCKPS) have made a significant decision to improve local schools by approving a bond worth $180 million. This decision, made during the election on November 5, 2024, was solidified with an impressive 67.6% “yes” vote, surpassing the simple majority requirement needed for passage.

Key Details of the Bond

The newly approved bond will facilitate the construction of three new schools and various upgrades and improvements across multiple school facilities. KCKPS has stated that the recommended enhancements were shaped by feedback from students, parents, staff, and community members through a detailed survey.

One notable aspect of this bond is that it will not raise local taxes; it is classified as a zero-tax increase bond, meaning homeowners are not expected to experience any additional tax burden as a result of this funding.

Planned Projects Under the Bond

The bond will fund several high-priority projects, including:

• Architectural Expansion at Sumner Academy: This project will add an estimated $7 million addition to the existing structure, accommodating eight classrooms, restrooms, and support spaces. This initiative aims to phase out the mobile classrooms currently used at the academy.
• Consolidation of Silver City and Noble Prentis Elementary Schools: A new facility is estimated to cost $35 million and will be constructed at the Noble Prentis site. Students will stay in the existing building until the new structure is ready before demolition begins.
• Central Middle School Construction: The third project involves constructing a new Central Middle School with an allocation of $66.37 million. This project will involve the full demolition of the existing structure, requiring temporary relocation of students during construction.

Challenges Facing Central Middle School

Principal Bryan Dolezal has highlighted the urgent need for improvements at Central Middle School, which is over 110 years old. Dolezal described the school as showing its age, with some classrooms still featuring original wood floors and doors that use old keys. He pointed out structural issues such as cracked walls and leaks stemming from its outdated infrastructure.

Adding to the discomfort, Dolezal mentioned that air conditioning issues can lead to classroom temperatures soaring into the upper 90s during warmer months, a serious concern for nearly 700 students. Additionally, the lack of elevators poses accessibility challenges for mobility-impaired students, limiting their access to necessary facilities.

History of Funding Initiatives

This bond comes after a previous proposal in May 2024, which sought $420 million for a comprehensive upgrade of KCK schools. That proposal included plans for not only Central and Argentine Middle Schools but also other elementary schools and community facilities like a new library and aquatic center. However, it failed to pass.

As Kansas City, Kansas School District moves forward with the new funding, community leaders and educators are hopeful that these improvements will enhance the learning environment for students and staff alike. The investment in school infrastructure reflects a long-term commitment to providing quality education and facilities that promote student success.