Edmond schools need your vote

As our city continues to grow, it’s crucial to support and prioritize strong schools. Over the past year, we’ve seen the importance of quality education for our students, and the upcoming 2021 Edmond Public Schools bond issue allows us to continue providing excellent schooling and investing in the next generation of leaders in our community.

The Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce board recently unanimously voted to support the bond issue and encourages residents to participate in passing the proposals. The Edmond Public Schools Foundation board also voted to support the measures in the upcoming May 11 vote.

Bond issues require at least 60% “yes” votes to pass, and despite the requirements, Edmond voters have passed every bond issue since 1959. Through the years, Edmond Public Schools has demonstrated excellent transparency with their estimated costs and actual expenditures and continues to participate in open dialogue about the bond issue across the community.

The 2021 proposal includes $65 million worth of upgrades, land purchases, new classroom construction, and expansion across the entire district. It also includes funding for additional transportation vehicles for students.

Our population has continued to steadily increase, meaning an average of 500 new students attending Edmond schools each year. These bond issues are about looking forward and planning for the future, whatever it might hold.

The 2013 and 2017 bond issues included much-needed storm shelters for Edmond schools. They also brought investments in technology that helped immeasurably during the global pandemic.

Because of the success of the 2019 bond issue, Edmond Public Schools will open the first elementary school on the east side of I-35 this year. These examples demonstrate how the district continues to strategically expand to serve the growing number of Edmond residents while still improving and investing in current schools across the city.

Your participation in local elections like this one allows us to continue the legacy as one of the top districts in the state and region. While we have a half-century precedent of passing bond issues, we as Edmond residents must stay involved and engaged in the civic process and the future of our community. Don’t miss your chance to vote on May 11 to support our school system and support our students.

All registered voters who live within Edmond Public School district boundaries qualify to vote, including those residents who live outside the city limits of Edmond. Individuals should vote at their regular precincts. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 11. To find your polling place, visit okvoterportal.okelections.us.