DE PERE, WI (WTAQ) — Residents of De Pere are being encouraged to give their feedback regarding an operational and capital referendum from the Unified School District of De Pere, that could appear on the April ballot.
This district says they are facing three major challenges:
- Finances: The district is projecting a budget deficit of nearly $5 million annually over the next five years. Without additional funding, the district will not be able to maintain current programs and services for students.
- Capacity: The district serves 25% more students than 18 years ago. The district anticipates future growth that will create additional capacity issues.
- Aging Building Systems: Many district building systems (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical, plumbing, and roofing) need to be replaced.
The survey will gather feedback from community members on what to do next.
The following questions appear on the survey:
- Would you support an operational referendum that provides $4.75 million each year for five years?
- Would you support the District pursuing a capital (facilities) referendum to address maintenance of buildings and technology?
- Do you support the location for a new high school between the current high school and Dickenson Elementary?
- Would you support a $206.6 million referendum to fund the recommended facility plan, which includes updating HVAC systems, plumbing, roofing, etc. at various schools?
“We’re looking forward to the input because we want this to the the truest reflection for the community so they can be proud of De Pere Schools,” said Superintendent Christopher Thompson.
Parents within the Unified School District of De Pere received an email today with the survey; community members will receive the survey via mail.
The survey is open until November 15. The data will then be analyzed and provided to the school board in December.
To learn more about the referendums, click here.
