2010 Tulsa Public Schools Bond Issue
Fact Sheet
· On March 2 voters will have the opportunity to vote YES on the 2010 Tulsa Public Schools Bond Issue and continue the improvement of education in TPS without raising taxes.
· A comprehensive $354 million bond proposal addresses critical needs facing our school system. The plan was developed by the Citizens' Bond Development Committee, a group of citizens, educators and community leaders. It is a continuation of the 20-year comprehensive plan that began in 1995-96. It ensures monies are spent as promised and keeps tax rates level.
· About 97% of the district's buildings are more than 30 years old. Tulsa's children deserve safe, up-to-date facilities and high-quality learning environments.
· It is a proven fact that better schools have a direct impact on the quality of life of a city and that better schools lead to better neighborhoods and a better economy. This bond issue benefits everyone who calls Tulsa home.
· The bond allocates $261.4 million for building construction and repairs and addresses new facilities, classroom additions, heating and AC, replacing aging windows and roofs, and other needs most would consider as basic necessities. It also includes other crucial needs.
· Libraries. More than $19 million is earmarked for TPS libraries, including six new libraries.
· Technology, Learning Materials. More than $61 million is devoted to textbooks, classroom learning materials and technology infrastructure, including new computer workstations and other technology equipment to improve student productivity. The new technology will allow students' families to access curriculum materials and other information via the Internet, something that currently cannot be done.
· School safety and security is paramount. The bond issue includes significant improvements to safely control entry access points at all TPS sites and adds and improves surveillance camera systems to make our schools safer not only for students and teachers, but for family members, workers and others who visit school sites.
· Buses. 10,000+ students ride TPS school buses daily, so it is imperative that we continue to replace aging buses that are costing more money in maintenance and have higher fuel costs. New, more fuel-efficient buses will provide safe, reliable, and more cost-effective student transportation. This bond issue's transportation component also includes updating transportation computer software so that bus routes are conducted in a safer environment and allow for fewer late arrivals.
· Fine Arts & Physical Education. Schools also will receive fine arts equipment, band instruments, and band uniforms. Many TPS schools lack adequate PE facilities. The bond issue includes funding for PE equipment and new facilities.
· The bottom line is passing this bond issue is the smart thing to do and it will not raise taxes. We are playing catch up with many of the suburban school districts, but we’ve made significant strides in addressing our aging school system with the passage of the previous four bond issues. Keep us pointed in the right direction! Ensure the future of our great city through improved education and not pay a penny extra. Do the smart thing on March 2 and vote YES!
· For more information, call the TPS Bond Issue Campaign headquarters at 946-1317 about getting a speaker for your group as well as for brochures and yard signs, or visit the campaign website at www.DoTheSmartThingTulsa.com.