Wichita Public Schools is inviting the community to a series of open house sessions for the public to learn more and ask questions ahead of next month’s school bond vote.
Wichita Public Schools has placed a zero-tax-rate-change bond issue on the Feb. 25 ballot, which is focused on addressing infrastructure and educational needs that will accommodate teaching and learning methods and help improve overall student performance across the district.
The district invites the community to learn more and ask questions at any of the open houses planned from January 30 to February 13.
Open houses will be held from 5 – 7 p.m. at each of the following locations:
January 30
• Seltzer Elementary – 11660 E Lincoln St.
February 10
• Isley Elementary – 5256 N Woodlawn Blvd., Bel Aire
• L’Ouverture Elementary – 1539 N Ohio Ave.
February 11
• Pleasant Valley Elementary – 2000 West 29th St. N.
• Truesdell Middle School – 2464 S Glenn Ave.
February 12
• Wilbur Middle School – 340 N Tyler Rd.
• Woodland Elementary – 1705 Salina Ave.
February 13
• Chisholm Trail Elementary – 6015 Independence St., Park City
• OK Elementary – 1607 N West St.
USD 259 released the following statement about the bond issue:
With more than 80 school buildings, many over 60 years old, the district seeks to update facilities and provide students with tools for success in a rapidly changing world. The bond issue focuses on providing funding for essential upgrades, including roofs, windows, heating and cooling systems, electrical, and plumbing, and improved accessibility for students with disabilities. Safety and security enhancements, along with updates to classrooms, labs, and career training programs, are also priorities.
This zero-rate-change proposal will not change the district’s current bond mill levy – it would stay at the same level as it is today. By retiring outdated and inefficient buildings, WPS will consolidate resources, reduce operational costs and reinvest in long-term facility needs across the district. This comprehensive approach, guided by community input and expert analysis, emphasizes efficiency while protecting taxpayers’ $5 billion investment in the district’s buildings.
Key projects include:
• New and updated infrastructure systems.
• Enhanced safety and security measures.
• New and renovated classrooms that accommodate up-to-date teaching and learning
methods.
• Accessibility improvements.
• A new construction trades FutureReady center to provide up-to-date career training and early childhood education center.
By addressing these needs now, WPS aims to prevent costly future repairs and ensure updated learning environments for all students.