Zero-Rate-Change Bond Issue
Stronger Schools for Wichita
Bond Issue Vote Scheduled for February 25, 2025
Addressing Real Needs
Wichita Public Schools (WPS) manages more than 80 school buildings, many of which are over 60 years old and no longer meet the needs of today’s students. The bond issue on the Feb. 25 ballot is designed to address critical needs without changing the tax rate.
If approved by voters, the proposal would provide funding to:
- Begin updating classrooms, labs, and career training facilities to align with best practices in teaching and learning.
- Address critical infrastructure needs such as aging roofs, windows, heating and cooling systems, electrical, and plumbing.
- Enhance safety and security.
- Improve accessibility for students with disabilities.
- Establish a new construction trades FutureReady center to provide up-to-date career training.
These upgrades will help improve student performance and prepare them for success in a rapidly changing world.
A Smart, Efficient Plan
Thanks to careful financial planning, passing this bond issue will not increase the district’s current bond mill levy—it would stay at the same level as it is today, meaning the tax rate you pay stays the same. By replacing outdated, inefficient buildings with new, consolidated facilities, WPS can:
- Save operational and maintenance costs.
- Redirect those funds across all district facilities to better meet long-term facility needs now and in the future.
- The plan ensures that funds are used efficiently to improve educational spaces.
Strengthening Our Community
Investing in our schools will help Wichita’s future by:
- Attracting families and businesses.
- Enhancing neighborhoods.
- Protecting property values.
- The plan also boosts the local economy by generating millions of dollars in economic activity.
The Tax Rate Stays the Same
We can fund $450 million in essential projects with zero change to the district’s tax rate. The rate will remain one of the lowest in the region.
Protecting Investments
Addressing critical facility needs now safeguards the community’s $5 billion investment in our school buildings and prevents costly future repairs. This proposal, shaped by expert input and community voices, reflects a commitment to today’s students and future generations.
Information Open Houses
Each open house is 5 - 7 p.m.
- January 30 - Seltzer Elementary, 11660 E. Lincoln
- February 10 - Isely Elementary, 5256 N. Woodlawn
- February 10 - L'Ouverture Elementary, 1539 N. Ohio
- February 11 - Pleasant Valley Elementary, 2000 W. 29th North
- February 11 - Truesdell Middle School, 2464 S. Glenn
- February 12 - Wilbur Middle School, 340 N. Tyler
- February 12 - Woodland Elementary, 1705 Salina
- February 13 - OK Elementary, 1607 N. West Street
- February 13 - Chisholm Trail Elementary, 6015 Independence, Park City
- Click on the link above to submit a question
- Call 316-866-8940
- Email WPSBond@usd259.net