Tulsa district puts $609 million bond request on April ballot

The Tulsa (Oklahoma) district will ask voters in April to approve the largest bond package in its history, a four-part, $609 million proposal officials say is essential to maintaining classrooms, facilities and student programs.

Public Radio Tulsa reports that district leaders say approval would not increase taxes, but defeat at the polls could force difficult budget choices that directly affect students and staff.

Voters will decide on the bond package April 7.

The bond package is divided into four propositions.

Proposition 1 ($200.9 million): Funding for instructional materials, textbooks, digital curriculum, fine arts and athletic programs, career academies and post-secondary readiness initiatives, along with early childhood and Montessori programs.

Proposition 2 ($276 million): Building renovations and safety upgrades across the district, including heating and air conditioning systems, roof repairs, accessibility improvements, secure entrances, security cameras and other infrastructure needs.

Proposition 3 ($104.8 million): Technology investments, including student devices, classroom and teacher technology, cybersecurity, network systems and facility upgrades needed to support technology.

Proposition 4 ($27.2 million): Transportation improvements, including new school buses, driver’s education vehicles, bus repairs, and technology such as cameras and Wi-Fi equipment on buses.

Each proposition requires at least 60% voter approval to pass.