What are the details of this MSTM project? 

• Relocate the softball field to improve campus safety and security.​

• A shift to make the front of the building north facing with a main front entrance to improve safety, security, and improved traffic flow.

• ​The addition/renovation of a new main drive off Highway 28, parking lot, separate bus loop, and parent pick-up/drop-off on the north side to improve vehicle circulation and safety and reduce congestion on Burlington Ave.

• ​Addition of a single safe and secure entrance on the north side serving both the elementary and secondary components of our school operation.

• ​The addition of a multi-purpose gym.

• ​The renovation of the secondary science rooms.

• Upgrades to the HVAC system to improve student and staff safety and comfort.

What is the vote on November for?
General Obligation Bonds in an amount not to exceed $15,950,000 to provide funds to build, furnish and equip a secure entrance and multipurpose gymnasium at the school building; and to remodel, repair, furnish, equip, and improve the school building, including HVAC and electrical systems, and site improvements, including parking.

What is the total cost of the project and how is it being paid for?

• The total anticipated cost of the project is $16,651,271.

• The district is using approximately $1.7mm of SAVE dollars to fund the science room renovation and softball field relocation. SAVE is money allocated to school districts specifically for infrastructure projects, transportation, and technology.

• ​The General obligation bond will cover the balance and fund the HVAC renovation, north addition, gymnasium, bus loop and parking lot, and classroom furniture.

​
How much will this raise my taxes?

• To fund these projects, the increase to your taxes will be no more than $0.41 per thousand dollars of assessed value, initially.  

• To see the impact of your specific property, visit the Tax Impact Calculator. 

Why are we moving the softball field?
Initially, there was no desire or need to move the softball field from its currently location. However, as we evaluated the project, it became clear that the first thing that was needed was to relocate the Softball field from its location north of the school building in Martensdale to provide for new development space. Moving the field solves site circulation issues and allows for a single point-of-entry to address safety and security concerns.

Is the baseball field moving?
No, there are no plans to move the baseball field from St. Marys in the short, or long-term.

Why should we move forward with these improvements now?
The identified projects solve significant needs the district has currently. These projects directly impact the safety and security of students and staff, provide adequate working and learning environments for students and staff, and alleviate significant traffic safety concerns a single K-12 school building present.

Was the community involved in creating this proposed solution?
Yes. There were two community meetings held in October, 2023, and then a community facilities committee was formed and met between November, 2023, and March, 2024, to finalize a plan that was presented to the Board of Education on April 8, 2024, for approval. 

Will community members get to vote on the proposed solution to the district's facilities needs?
Yes; in the November 5, 2024, General Election.