Proposition W: Win for Students

Overall Proposition Questions: 

What is a bond issue?

Bond issues cover items outside the regular budget. A bond issue is a traditional way for schools to borrow money to finance capital projects, such as the construction and renovation of facilities and associated equipment. In Missouri, a bond issue requires voter approval, even if the bond issue will not increase the tax rate.

 

What is Proposition W: Win for Students?

Prop W is a win for students. This $22 million, no-tax-rate increase bond issue focuses on modernizing learning environments across all district buildings — improving safety, accessibility, and instructional spaces so students can succeed.

 

Why is it needed? 

Many district facilities are aging and require updates to remain safe, accessible, and aligned with modern educational needs. Delaying these projects increases future costs.

 

How do students benefit from bond issues?

Bond issues allow schools to pay for costly repairs and renovations over time instead of all at once. They also allow schools to devote most of their day-to-day operating budgets to classroom instruction rather than to major repair work and bricks and mortar. A bond issue has no effect on staff salaries, as, by law, the proceeds can be used only for capital improvements.

 

What projects are included?

The proposed bond issue focuses on renovating and modernizing existing facilities across the district, with a primary emphasis on Washington High School, Washington Middle School, and elementary schools. Projects include safety and security upgrades, classroom and science lab renovations, auditorium and fine arts improvements, athletic and activity space renovations, restroom upgrades, parking and traffic safety improvements, playground replacements and ADA surfaces, and infrastructure improvements, including HVAC, roofing, and accessibility enhancements. All projects are aligned to the District’s Long Range Facilities Master Plan.

 

How were the projects determined? 

Projects were identified through a multi-year planning process that included facility assessments, staff and community feedback, Board of Education discussions, survey data, and collaboration with professional facility planning partners. The focus was on safety, aging infrastructure, student learning environments, and responsible long-term stewardship of district facilities. See the District Long Range Facilities Master Plan

How is this Proposition W moving the district forward?

Many community members who attended Washington High School note that the building looks much the same today as it did when they were students. While there is pride in that tradition, today’s students deserve modern, safe, and engaging learning environments. This bond modernizes both the interior and exterior of our schools, ensuring facilities reflect the high-quality education being provided and supporting learning experiences that meet today’s standards.

What is a “Zero Rate Change Bond Issue”? 

A bond issue is a way for governmental entities, such as school districts, to borrow money for large projects at today’s construction costs and today’s interest rates and repay them with future tax proceeds. A bond issue is similar to a home loan, but generally on a shorter repayment schedule (20 years).

A zero rate change bond issue means the District is proposing to fund facility improvements without increasing the current debt service tax rate. If approved, the tax rate dedicated to bond repayment is expected to remain the same as it is today.

How are we able to do this without a tax increase?

The District has existing bond debt that is scheduled to be paid down. By refinancing and restructuring debt responsibly and carefully timing issuance, the District can replace retiring debt with new bonds while keeping the overall tax rate unchanged.

The proposed April 2026 Bond Program will be presented with zero change to the current debt service  levy because of a combination of effective financial management and strong growth in our tax base. The District generates bond proceeds by multiplying our debt service  tax rate (currently $.47) per $100 of total assessed valuation.  Because our tax base is increasing and is projected to continue, we do not have to increase our debt service  levy to finance these projects.

How is the $22 million bond amount fiscally responsible?

The District has approximately $30 million in bonding capacity that could be issued without increasing the tax rate. However, the Board chose to request only the amount necessary to complete the most critical projects at this time. This approach balances current facility needs with long-term financial stewardship and preserves flexibility for future priorities.

How has the district been fiscally responsible enough for me to invest in it again?

The District continues to follow conservative budgeting and hiring practices while prioritizing student needs. Resources are allocated carefully to support strong instruction, academic interventions, behavioral supports, and social-emotional services without overextending finances. This balanced approach allows the District to meet current needs, plan responsibly for the future, and remain a strong steward of taxpayer dollars.

What projects were completed from the 2019 Bond?

Projects from the 2019 bond were completed as promised and included the new South Point Elementary School, a new Library addition at Washington Middle School, major safety upgrades at all schools, HVAC work, roofing, classroom renovations, LED lighting upgrades, and site improvements across multiple buildings.

 

What happens if the bond issue doesn't pass?

The current tax rate will remain unchanged until 20239. Capital improvements (roof repairs, HVAC, new classroom additions, etc ) will need to be put on hold, or the district could be forced to use operating funds (money used for educating students and paying the salaries for teachers and staff) to take care of emergency repairs or urgent capital improvement projects. Schools will remain open.

 

Ballot Specific Questions:

How will this appear on the April ballot? 

Here is the complete language that will appear on the April 7, 2026, ballot:  

“Shall the Board of Education of The School District of Washington, Franklin County, Missouri, issue general obligation bonds in the amount of $22,000,000 for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, renovating, furnishing and equipping school buildings, sites and facilities, including but not limited to security improvements and renovations to the high school?  If this proposition is approved, the debt service levy of the school district is estimated to remain unchanged from the current debt service levy of $0.47 per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation of real and personal property.” 

What percentages does it take to pass a bond issue? 

A bond issue on the ballot in April must have just above 57% or 4/7 in yes votes to pass.

 

What else is on the ballot?

In addition to the bond issue, the ballot may include city issues, Senate Bill 3, and School District of Washington Board of Education elections. Three Board seats with three-year terms will also be on the ballot.

Why is the district placing this bond issue on the ballot when there is also a tax freeze on the ballot? Why is this important now?

The bond issue and the tax freeze serve different purposes and are addressed separately under state law. This bond proposal is focused on long-term facility needs and is structured as a no tax rate increase. Placing the bond on the ballot now allows the District to address aging infrastructure, safety, and learning environment needs at a time when existing debt is being paid down. Delaying these improvements would likely increase costs over time and postpone necessary updates for students.

Is there a Phase 2 of this bond project?

There is no officially identified Phase 2 associated with this bond. However, the Board of Education has intentionally left capacity within the District’s bonding limit to allow future Boards flexibility to address needs that may arise after 2032 without requiring a tax rate increase. Potential future considerations could include an activity center or field house, or a more extensive renovation or expansion of the Nix building, based on future needs and community input.

How much is SDOW spending on putting Prop W on the ballot?

There is always an expense associated with putting something on the ballot, regardless of the time of the year. The cost to the district is also dependent on how many other organizations are placing something on that particular ballot (in order to share the cost).  2019 Bond Election costs for our three counties were:

• Franklin - $26,987
• St. Charles - $3,729
• Warren - $1,483

Construction/ Renovation Questions:

Why are we renovating and not building a new WHS? 

Renovating Washington High School is the most fiscally responsible option. The building has strong structural integrity, and renovations allow the District to modernize learning spaces, address safety and accessibility needs, and extend the life of the facility at a fraction of the cost of new construction.

Is now a good time to pursue construction?

Yes. The District is in a strong financial position, interest rates are favorable compared to historical norms, and addressing facility needs now helps avoid more costly repairs in the future.

 

When was Washington High School Built? 

Washington High School was originally constructed in the mid-20th century and has undergone multiple additions and renovations over the decades. Many systems and spaces now require modernization to meet current educational and safety standards.

How does the bond benefit the local economy?

The bond projects have a meaningful economic impact during construction. Of the $22.0 million total project cost, approximately $17.6 million is expected to be spent locally, supporting construction firms, architects, engineers, and suppliers. This local investment helps strengthen area businesses while improving school facilities.

 

How many jobs and wages are supported by the bond projects?

During construction, the projects are expected to support an average of 49 jobs each year, including 36 direct construction-related positions. Total direct and indirect wages are estimated at $8.9 million, with $7.0 million in direct construction payroll, providing income that is reinvested in the local economy.

 

What is the timeline for construction? 

If the bond is approved in April 2026, planning and design will begin immediately, with construction starting as early as summer 2026. Projects will be phased over multiple years to minimize disruption and ensure efficient use of funds.

Will students be displaced during renovation?

No long-term student displacement is anticipated. Work will be phased and scheduled around the school calendar whenever possible. Any temporary adjustments will prioritize student safety and continuity of learning.

Why is Four Rivers Career Center not specifically noted as a major project?

While Four Rivers Career Center (FRCC) is not seeing specific updates, the addition of the Culinary Arts program at WHS will support the FRCC Career and Technical Education programming.  In addition, Four Rivers Career Center has seen a significant district investment over the past several years. In the last five years alone, the District has invested more than $2.5 million in district funds and leveraged over $6 million total through career grants to support state-of-the-art equipment, program expansion, facility updates, and instructional improvements. 

District Financial Questions:

 

How is SDOW funded? 

Nearly 80% of district revenues come from local sources, with local property taxes making the large majority of the district revenue.   Approximately  20% of our operating revenue is received from the state and federal governments.  State and federal revenue sources have declined in recent  years and are  expected to continue to decline. 

 

Where do our tax dollars go? 

More than 57% of every dollar received by the district goes directly to student instruction, including teacher and instructional staff salaries and benefits.

Instruction - 57¢ per dollar Expenditures connected with the day-to-day operations of providing instruction to our students at our school sites.  These include but are not limited to the salaries and benefits for teachers, classroom assistants, nurses and social workers as well as the expenditures to support our curriculum in the classroom and extra activities in fine arts and athletics. 

Facilities - 17¢ per dollar Expenditures connected with the care and upkeep of our facilities.  These include the salaries and benefits of our custodial, grounds, maintenance and other facilities staff as well as the supplies, purchased services and capital needs of our district to keep our campuses open and safe.

Central Admin - 11¢ per dollar Expenditures connected with activities establishing and administering policy for operating the district as a whole. The costs include the salaries and benefits, supplies and purchased services covering the activities of the Board of Education, superintendent and assistant superintendents, Communications, Human Resources, Finance and Technology departments.  

Transportation - 6¢ per dollar Expenditures connected with the transporting of our K-12 students to and from home and for after-school sponsored events.  These include contracted service we have through First Student.

School Support - 5¢ per dollar Expenditures connected with directing and managing the operation of the district's school sites. These include the salaries and benefits for the principals, assistant principals and office staff as well as supplies and purchased services to support the daily operations of the buildings.

Food Service - 4¢ per dollar Expenditures connected with managing the Child Nutrition Program to provide our students nutrition breakfasts and lunches. 

How do we know SDOW is being good stewards of taxpayer dollars? 

The District completes independent audits, maintains strong fund balances, completes projects as promised, and follows Board-approved financial policies.

 

How does the SDOW assessed value per student compare to other districts? 

 

 

The district has $20M in reserves, shouldn't SDOW use that for these projects? 

Reserves are critical for financial stability, emergencies, and cash flow.  Reserves are for operational costs and not part of the Capital Projects Fund.  They are not sufficient or appropriate for funding large-scale, long-term facility projects.

 

What are the Capital fund rules? Can you transfer those funds to Capital funds? 

Capital funds are restricted by law and Board policy and can only be used for specific purposes. Transfers between funds are limited and regulated and cannot replace the need for voter-approved bond funding for large projects.

 

Can bond funds be used to increase teacher pay? 

No. General obligation bonds provide funds for capital improvements. The bonds are paid off through the debt service levy. Use of the debt service levy is dictated by state statute.  Salaries are paid out of the operating levy, which is not impacted by bonds. 

Why doesn't the district ask for more bond money to take care of all the projects at one time? 

The state of Missouri limits how much a school district can ask for (15% of the assessed value of the property in the district).  The District is committed to fiscal responsibility and avoiding unnecessary debt. Projects are prioritized and phased to balance needs with taxpayer impact.

 

Tax Levy Questions:

How is Proposition W a no tax increase? 

Excellent financial management - paying off bond debt, refinancing bond debt and building a one-year reasonable reserve - offsets the need to increase the tax levy as proposed in Proposition W. Example: a homeowner has a 20 year, $150,000 loan at 6% with a mortgage payment of $800 per month. After 10 years, interest rates are at an all time low of 3.5%. The homeowner would like to make home improvements. At this time the homeowner can refinance, borrow additional funds for home improvements or add a home equity loan all while keeping the payment close to the same amount.

 

What is the SDOW current total tax rate?

$3.9631

 

How is the tax level calculated on my property? 

Taxes are calculated on the assessed value of your home and personal property, which is determined by the county assessor, not the market value (or what you paid for it). You can look at your property tax receipt to determine the actual assessed value.

 

Where does our tax levy currently rank compared to other districts? Where will it rank if this bond issue passes?

The SDOW tax levy is competitive and comparable to similar Missouri school districts. Because this is a zero rate change bond issue, the District’s relative ranking is expected to remain stable if the bond passes.

What is the School District of Washington’s tax rate history?

The District has a long history of maintaining a stable and responsible tax rate, making adjustments only when necessary and with voter approval. This proposal continues that pattern of fiscal responsibility.

If I have been approved for the Senior Property Tax freeze, how will Prop W impact my taxes? 

Eligible seniors with an approved tax freeze should not see an increase in their frozen tax amount related to the bond.

 

How will the Senior Tax Freeze impact SDOW’s revenues? 

The Senior Tax Freeze impact for FY26 was a loss of $642,282 of new revenue  from increased assessed valuation of real property.  

 

District Instructional Questions:

What is the current enrollment in SDOW? What are the enrollment projections?

The School District of Washington currently serves approximately 3,500–3,600 students K through 12, with additional early childhood enrollment. Long-range projections show relatively stable enrollment with modest fluctuations tied to housing development and demographic trends. The bond focuses on maintaining and improving existing facilities rather than building for significant growth.

How will Prop W impact student learning in SDOW?

Prop W focuses on improving learning environments, safety, and access to modern instructional spaces, which directly supports student engagement, instructional quality, and program offerings.

 

There is a narrative that test scores are not increasing, why does the district have a Bond on the ballot? 

Bond issues fund facilities, not instructional programs or staffing. Safe, modern, and functional learning environments are a necessary foundation for strong instruction, but test scores are influenced by many factors beyond facilities alone.

How does the School District of Washington partner with parochial schools?

The District works collaboratively with parochial schools in several ways. Students from St. Francis Borgia High School participate in Four Rivers Career Center and other career and technical education programs. The proposed addition of a Culinary Arts CTE program would further expand access for Borgia students. In addition, the District partners with all parochial schools on federally required services, including support for students who qualify for free and reduced meals, professional development opportunities, safety protocols, and administrative collaboration.

Election Questions:

When is the election?

The election is April 7, 2026.

How do I register to vote?

Patrons may register to vote at the Board of Elections office or register on online by clicking here.

When is the last day to register to vote?

The deadline to register for the April 7, 2026 election is March 11, 2026.

Where do I vote on April 7?

Your voter registration card will indicate your polling location. You may also visit the Missouri Voter Outreach to find your polling location.

Who can vote in the April 7th election? 

All registered voters in the School District of Washington are eligible to vote in this election. A person may vote in any election who:

• Is a citizen of the United States and is at least 18 years old
• Has been a resident of Missouri and the district for at least 28 days before the election
• Has registered to vote by March 11, 2026 
• Is not registered to vote in another jurisdiction

How do I register to vote? 

Complete a voter registration application by:

• Submit Online Voter Registration Application on Secretary of State website by clicking here.
• Print & Mail Application
• Register in Person
• Request an Application to be mailed (you will receive a blank application in 3-5 business days)

 

Where do I vote? 

To find a polling place near you, visit your county's website. 

• Franklin County
• St Charles County
• Warren County

 

What type of identification do I need to bring to the polls in order to vote? 

According to the Missouri Secretary of State website, you are now required to show one of the forms of acceptable identification and sign the poll book to obtain your ballot:

• A non-expired Missouri driver or non-driver license;
• A non-expired military ID, including a veteran’s ID card;
• A non-expired United States passport; or
• Another photo ID issued by the United States or the state of Missouri that is either not expired or expired after the date of the most recent general election.

If you do not possess any of these forms of identification but are a registered voter, you may cast a provisional ballot. Your ballot will count if: (1) you return to your polling place on Election Day with a photo ID; or (2) the signature on your provisional ballot envelope is determined by your local election authority to match the signature on your voter registration record.

I can’t make it to the polls on Election Day.  How do I vote? 

Prior to the second Tuesday before an election, or at any time when requesting an absentee ballot to return by mail, absentee voters must provide one of the following reasons for voting absentee:

1. Absence on Election Day from the jurisdiction of the election authority in which such voter is registered to vote;
2. Incapacity or confinement due to illness or physical disability on election day, including a person who is primarily responsible for the physical care of a person who is incapacitated or confined due to illness or disability and resides at the same address; 
3. Religious belief or practice;
4. Employment as an election authority or by an election authority at a location other than such voter’s polling place, a first responder, a health care worker, or a member of law enforcement;
5. Incarceration, provided all qualifications for voting are retained.
6. Certified participation in the address confidentiality program established under sections 589.660 to 589.681 because of safety concerns.

Voters can request absentee ballots from their local election authority in person, by mail, by fax or by e-mail. See Absentee Voting Information by clicking here.

Absentee Ballots are due postmarked by March 11, 2026. 

From the second Tuesday before an election to the day before the election, you may vote a no-excuse absentee ballot in person at a location designated by your local election authority.

Don't See Your Question Answered Here?

Submit a question about Prop W to PropWquestions@sdowmo.org or 

Your question may be chosen to be addressed publicly at one of the Community Information Meetings. All questions will receive an email response.