The Plan
For decades, Bayless School District has taken a careful, long-term approach to maintaining and improving its school facilities. Through thoughtful planning, community input, and responsible use of resources, the District has worked to extend the life of its buildings while keeping them safe, functional, and supportive of learning. Proposition I is the next step in that work.
After recommendations from the Bayless Community Facilities Advisory Committee and the Bayless School District Administration, the Bayless Board of Education voted to place Proposition I, a $23 million NO TAX RATE INCREASE bond issue, on the April 7, 2026 ballot.
This plan focuses on protecting what we have, modernizing critical systems, and making targeted improvements that directly support students, staff, and the community - while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Why a Bond Issue?
Bonds are the most economical way for schools to build and renovate school buildings and grounds. School buildings and property are long-term community assets. Roofs, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical infrastructure, and major renovations are designed to last for decades and are appropriately funded through bonds.
By using bond funds for major facility needs, Bayless is able to preserve operating dollars for what they are intended to support every year: instruction, staffing, salaries, and student programs. Proposition I allows the District to address aging infrastructure within its existing tax rate, meaning there is no increase to the debt service tax rate for residents.
What Will Proposition I Fund?
Proposition I invests in four major areas that directly affect daily school operations and long-term reliability. These four areas are outlined below:
After recommendations from the Bayless Community Facilities Advisory Committee and the Bayless School District Administration, the Bayless Board of Education voted to place Proposition I, a $23 million NO TAX RATE INCREASE bond issue, on the April 7, 2026 ballot.
This plan focuses on protecting what we have, modernizing critical systems, and making targeted improvements that directly support students, staff, and the community - while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Why a Bond Issue?
Bonds are the most economical way for schools to build and renovate school buildings and grounds. School buildings and property are long-term community assets. Roofs, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical infrastructure, and major renovations are designed to last for decades and are appropriately funded through bonds.
By using bond funds for major facility needs, Bayless is able to preserve operating dollars for what they are intended to support every year: instruction, staffing, salaries, and student programs. Proposition I allows the District to address aging infrastructure within its existing tax rate, meaning there is no increase to the debt service tax rate for residents.
What Will Proposition I Fund?
Proposition I invests in four major areas that directly affect daily school operations and long-term reliability. These four areas are outlined below:
Health, Safety & Security
Keeping students and staff safe is foundational to learning. Proposition I addresses building integrity, accessibility, and campus security across all schools, including:
- Roof and plumbing repairs
- ADA Accessibility upgrades
- Enhanced security features and access controls
- A new storm shelter to support student and community safety
- Playground improvements
Building System Modernization & Energy Efficiency
Many of Bayless’s core building systems are aging and require replacement or significant upgrades to remain reliable. Those increasing operational costs pull resources and money from our core operating budget. Replacing old and outdated HVAC equipment results in considerable savings over time. A major portion of the proposed bond funding is slated for these major infrastructure repair. Proposition I focuses on modernizing systems that keep schools operating every day, including:
- Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) upgrades. This includes a new HVAC systems on the older portions of Bayless Elementary.
- Electrical and lighting improvements
- Energy-efficient systems that improve comfort and indoor air quality
Classroom & Learning Space Improvements
Classrooms and instructional spaces must remain flexible, functional, and supportive of modern teaching and learning. Proposition I includes renovations across the Elementary, Junior High, and High School, such as:
- Flooring, ceiling, and lighting upgrades
- Updated furnishings and instructional spaces
- Improvements that support flexibility, comfort and instructional use
Facility & Site Enhancements for Student Programs
In addition to core academic spaces, Proposition I supports student programs and community use through targeted facility and site improvements, including:
- A new student and community activity and learning center
- Continued improvements to outdoor fields and campus facilities
- Enhanced spaces for academics, activities, athletics, and events
