HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Schools USD 308 will host its final community meeting Wednesday, Oct. 28, to provide residents with information about a proposed $36 million bond issue that will appear on the Nov. 3 general election ballot.
The meeting will take place from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy, 800 E. 15th Circle.
The proposed 12-year bond would fund safety, security and facility improvements at schools throughout the district. USD 308 officials say the proposal would not require an increase to the current taxpayer mill levy.
District officials describe the plan as a smaller, shorter bond focused on improving existing facilities rather than constructing new buildings.
Proposed projects include roof replacements, heating and cooling system upgrades, improved building security, restroom renovations, accessibility improvements and updates to school food service areas.
Several schools would also receive more extensive improvements, including storm shelters and gymnasium upgrades at Allen STEM Magnet, Graber Elementary and Wiley Elementary.
At Allen STEM Magnet, additional projects would include expanded band and STEM classrooms. Lincoln-McCandless Elementary would receive playground improvements, while Hutchinson High School and its Career and Technical Education Academy would receive controlled-entry and security upgrades.
Other proposed improvements include roof replacements at Faris Elementary, Lincoln-McCandless Elementary, Hutchinson Middle School 7 and Hutchinson High School, along with interior renovations at several district buildings.
Wednesday's meeting will follow an informal, come-and-go format, allowing residents to review project maps, examine proposed improvements at individual schools and ask questions of USD 308 staff.
Light refreshments will be provided.
The bond proposal will go before district voters Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Additional information about the proposal and projects at individual schools is available at www.usd308.com/bond.