Sapulpa Voters Asked To Support Largest School Bond Proposal Ever

On Tuesday, Sapulpa voters will be asked to approve a $40.5 million bond issue for improvements to the public school system.

Sunday, August 24th 2014, 4:21 pm

By: Dee Duren

Sapulpa Voters Asked To Support Largest School Bond Proposal Ever

On Tuesday, August 26, Sapulpa voters will be asked to approve a $40.5 million bond issue for improvements to the public school system. It's the largest bond vote in the school district's history.

Generally, projects include improvements to Sapulpa Middle School and Elementary, digital technology for students and teachers, additions and improvements to athletic facilities, new buses and improved security measures.

"The concern we have if it does not pass, we will not be able to provide the kind of learning environment that we want to be able to provide our students in the 21st Century," said School Board President Steve McCormick.

Two proposals will appear on the ballot: a $39.2 million construction bond and a $1.2 million transportation bond. Approving the school bond would translate to a $38 annual increase for every $100,000 in home value.

The biggest investment is for a new, two-story wing at the middle school. It will include safe rooms, new science and math classrooms. They also plan to remodel the middle school's existing buildings with a larger kitchen and a commons area, a more secure entrance and improved recess areas.

The elementary school improvements would include a new safe room, new fire suppression system and improvements to stage and music areas. They also plan to enlarge Liberty Elementary's administrative suite and improve entrance security.

Technology purchases include the purchase of one digital device - a tablet or laptop - for each student in grades 3 through 12. Digital instructional devices will also be improved for teachers. The school system is asking for an upgraded phone system and other communication upgrades to school facilities.

Finally, the school system hopes to refurbish the football stadium and build a separate soccer and track facility and 8-lane track.

McCormick said a 40-member research group spent four months studying what improvements the school needed most, then the school board narrowed the list down to those in the bond issue.

Facility improvements: $15,237,086
Technology/Instruction: $7,636,500
Activities and Athletics: $6,497,117
Facility Maintenance: $2,490,000
Transportation: $1,225,000
Safety and Security: $1, 200,000

Voters can learn more about the "Chieftain Stronger" bond issue proposals here.