Transforming Education: Union County's Bond Referendum Aims to Modernize Aging Schools

Union County Public Schools (UCPS) is taking a proactive step to address the needs of its aging educational infrastructure. The district is proposing a $39 million bond referendum that would fund critical upgrades and renovations at two of its schools: Parkwood High School and East Union Middle School. This initiative aims to provide students with modern learning environments that support 21st-century teaching and learning.

Empowering the Future: UCPS Bond Referendum Promises Brighter Horizons

Revitalizing Parkwood High School: A Comprehensive Approach

The bond package allocates approximately $10.7 million for a pre-construction project at Parkwood High School. This funding will cover the essential design work, assessments, and land surveys required to eventually replace the aging school building, which was constructed in the 1960s. By investing in this comprehensive planning phase, UCPS is laying the groundwork for a transformative project that will provide Parkwood High School students with a state-of-the-art learning environment.The district's commitment to modernizing Parkwood High School reflects its understanding of the evolving needs of modern education. Outdated facilities can hinder the implementation of innovative teaching methods and limit the integration of technology-driven learning experiences. By addressing these infrastructure challenges, UCPS aims to create a learning space that empowers students to thrive and reach their full potential.

Consolidating East Union Middle School: A Strategic Relocation

A significant portion of the bond package, approximately $27.6 million, is earmarked for the relocation of East Union Middle School to the Forest Hills High School campus. This strategic move will allow the district to consolidate its resources and provide a cohesive educational experience for students.By integrating East Union Middle School into the Forest Hills High School campus, UCPS aims to streamline operations, enhance resource sharing, and foster a more collaborative learning environment. The bond funding will cover the necessary demolition, additions, and renovations to accommodate the middle school programs on the shared campus.UCPS Superintendent Andrew Houlihan emphasizes the benefits of this consolidation, stating, "We're currently building a brand new Forest Hills High School. We'd like to get our East Union Middle School kids on that same footprint. So this bond, if passed, will allow us to redesign the current Forest Hills. We'll have all of our kids on one campus."This innovative approach not only maximizes the utilization of existing infrastructure but also creates opportunities for cross-pollination of ideas and shared resources between the middle and high school students. By bringing these educational communities together, UCPS hopes to cultivate a more enriching and well-rounded learning experience for all.

Ensuring Fiscal Responsibility: Addressing Potential Challenges

While the bond package presents an exciting opportunity for UCPS, the district is also mindful of the potential financial implications for Union County taxpayers. Approximately $1.1 million has been set aside to cover any cost overruns, unforeseen conditions, or changes in the scope of the construction projects.This proactive approach to budgeting demonstrates UCPS's commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency. By allocating a portion of the bond funds to address potential challenges, the district aims to ensure that the projects are completed efficiently and without placing an undue burden on the local community.Superintendent Houlihan emphasizes the importance of community engagement and informed decision-making, stating, "Please vote — I can't say 'vote yes' and I can't say 'vote no,' but I can say vote. We would encourage you to become educated about these projects. We have a long history in Union County of our citizens supporting bonds and it's the most effective way we can fund new schools."The district's transparency and encouragement for community involvement underscore its dedication to building trust and garnering support for the bond referendum. By providing ample opportunities for the public to learn about the proposed projects, UCPS aims to empower Union County residents to make an informed decision that aligns with the long-term educational needs of the community.

Investing in the Future: The Impact on Union County Taxpayers

While the bond package presents an exciting opportunity for UCPS, it is essential to consider the potential impact on Union County taxpayers. If the bond referendum is approved, it would result in an increase in property taxes of approximately $8 per $100,000 in property value.For a homeowner with a property valued at $400,000, this would translate to an additional $32 per year in taxes. While this may seem like a modest increase, it is crucial for Union County residents to understand the financial implications and weigh the benefits of the proposed projects against the potential tax burden.UCPS recognizes the importance of balancing the needs of the educational system with the financial considerations of the community. By providing transparent information and encouraging open dialogue, the district aims to foster a collaborative approach to decision-making that takes into account the diverse perspectives and concerns of Union County taxpayers.As the bond referendum approaches the November ballot, UCPS is committed to engaging the community and empowering residents to make an informed choice that aligns with their values and the long-term educational priorities of the region. This collaborative effort to modernize and strengthen the district's infrastructure is a testament to UCPS's dedication to providing students with the resources and learning environments they need to thrive in the 21st century.