PREPARING OUR SCHOOLS FOR THE FUTURE
On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, residents of the AGWSR Community School District will vote on a general obligation bond issue not to exceed $12.76 million.
If it’s approved by at least 60% of voters, the bond would fund critical infrastructure needs across the district. This would ensure AGWSR students have access to modern, safe, and efficient learning environments that support success and reflect the pride our community has in its local schools.
The proposed bond is estimated to have a property tax impact of $1.95 per $1,000 of taxable property value. For example, a home with an assessed value of $200,000 would see an approximate annual increase of $175.53.
A COMMUNITY PROCESS
After listening to community feedback from the November 2024 referendum, the School Board has significantly reduced its original project scope while addressing the most critical infrastructure needs.
In November 2024, a proposed $14.45 million referendum for building repairs, improvements to learning spaces, and HVAC upgrades fell short of being approved by voters. After that vote, the district and board conducted further community and staff outreach to understand voter concerns and priorities.
The revised November 2025 proposal has been reduced to $12.76 million. It will focus on essential infrastructure improvements and educational facility updates. This reduced scope maintains focus on the most critical facility needs while demonstrating fiscal responsibility and responsiveness to community input.
ADDRESSING OUR FACILITY NEEDS
While our facilities have been well maintained, there are issues and safety concerns that cannot be addressed through the district’s operational budget alone.
In March 2025, the AGWSR Community School District partnered with Bray Architects for a comprehensive assessment of the district’s facilities and a proposed master plan. The most urgent needs identified include:
HVAC and Electrical Systems: The existing heating and cooling systems date from 1955, 1957, and 1995, and have far exceeded their useful lifespan. These outdated systems need to be replaced with modern gas heating and cooling systems integrated into a centralized building control system for improved efficiency. In addition, much of the high school’s electrical infrastructure is outdated and would be replaced as part of this project to improve safety, reliability, and energy performance.
Educational Spaces: Our science and family and consumer science classrooms require modernization to support current curriculum standards and provide students with proper learning environments. Improvements are also needed in career and technical education spaces.
Multipurpose Room/Recess Facility: A new multipurpose facility would provide space for high school weightlifting, wrestling practice, and batting cages, while also serving elementary students during indoor recess. This shared-use space would enhance opportunities for student activities across grade levels.
Bus Transportation Safety: The existing bus barns lack the necessary height, length, and width to accommodate modern buses. Both facilities have required temporary extensions, and narrow bays frequently result in damaged mirrors and operational inefficiencies.
Energy Efficiency: New LED lighting systems and modern HVAC controls would reduce long-term operational costs and improve building performance.
The proposed bond funding would also support site improvements at school buildings and facilities. Delaying these repairs and upgrades will only result in higher costs as systems continue to age and deteriorate.
The proposal represents a comprehensive approach to addressing the district’s most pressing infrastructure needs in a single, coordinated effort. By addressing immediate concerns and preparing for future needs, we can ensure students have access to modern, safe, and efficient learning environments that support their success.
