The Dexter Leader
A Heritage Newspaper
Weekly Publication
Why the bond is important
By Evelynn Shirk
PUBLISHED: March 27, 2008
†In May, Dexter Community School District residents will be asked to vote on a $47,890,000 bond proposal that represents over 18 months of study by members of the board, community and staff. Here are a few answers to some common questions we hear regarding the bond proposal:
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Why is there a need for a bond?
Funding for K-12 public education began to decline in 2002-03. Since that time, the District has significantly reduced non-teaching staff in order to preserve money for classroom use. State funding has never provided sufficient resources to adequately maintain facilities and at the same time provide the quality of educational programming expected by this community. Dexter, as well as most districts throughout the state, has always relied on bond proceeds for building, infrastructure, equipment and technology purchases. The Board's commitment to the preservation of classroom personnel and programs continues to be the deciding factor in making any budget decisions.
What steps led to the decision to place a bond proposal on the ballot?
In order to ensure every opportunity to reduce cost and maximize resources for the classroom was explored, the board established the Committee on Revenue Growth and Saving Cost for Education (CORSE). CORSE established 11 smaller committees to study various aspects of District operations and made recommendations to the board in December 2006. One of the recommendations was to pursue a bond because it provided the greatest flexibility and could be repaid while maintaining the tax rate currently levied on properties.
The administration then developed a project list, surveyed staff and community members to refine the list, and engaged independent professionals to evaluate the priorities on the basis of existing conditions.
A Bond Committee, led by community members, was then established to review the proposed project list. After seeking input from the community and analyzing the results of a community survey, the Bond Committee significantly reduced the project list. The Bond Committee made its recommendations regarding the size and scope of the bond to the board in November 2007. The board unanimously approved these recommendations. The board received final approval of the bond application from the state in February and adopted a resolution for a $47,890,000 bond proposal to be placed on the ballot on May 6, 2008.
Where can I get more information?
Facts about the bond are available on the District's Web site at www.dexter.k12.mi.us or by visiting the Superintendent's Office in the Copeland Administration Building.
A Community Forum will be conducted by District personnel at 7 p.m. on April 10 in the cafeteria at Creekside Intermediate School to explain the components of the bond and to answer questions. Representatives from the District will be happy to conduct other presentations about the bond. To arrange for such a presentation, call (734) 424-4100 (ext. 1002).
The District can address the needs identified in the bond proposal with a YES vote on May 6.
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