On Feb. 11, 2014, Mid-Del Public Schools is asking voters to stand behind a bond issue to fund various projects, including one to build the district’s fourth safe room.
The $10.405 million bond, which includes two propositions, one for safety, security and technology projects, and another for transportation, was approved by board of education members Monday, Dec. 9.
In Prop. 1, the school district is asking for just over $10 million for projects that will benefit students at every school, school officials said.
New security vestibules, electronic door access, fencing, security cameras, lighting and instructional technology equipment are included in Prop. 1.
The biggest expense would be a new safe room at Parkview Elem. at a cost of $1,350,324. If the bond passes, Mid-Del Schools will have four safe rooms total, including those at the new Midwest City and Soldier Creek elementary schools, opening the fall of 2014, and also Del City Elementary, already in place.
Other sites in the school district, like the administration building and Mid-Del Technology Center, also will see security improvements.
In the second proposition, voters will be asked to approve an additional $400,000 for transportation equipment. This will fund the replacement of existing aged buses.
Superintendent Pam Deering said the school district has been very "forward-thinking" by assessing all facilities for safety and security.
She said the bond is an opportunity for patrons to make schools safer for all students and staff.
"We are grateful to our Parent/Community Bond Advisory Committee for working with us to review these needs," she said. "This committee includes district patrons from across the district."
In addition, administrators have been engaged in "Listen and Learn Talks" at school sites and in the community for bond projects input.
The bond also will address issues brought forth by national tragedy events dealing with school safety.
"We are striving to provide safer, more viable schools for now and in the future," said school board president LeRoy Porter. "Our patrons understand this need and we know that they will step up, as in the past, to protect our students and staff."
Watch for more information in EastWord to be released on the bond issue.
