Frequently Asked Questions
0% Tax Levy Rate Increase
Overview
What is the SPCS 2026 Bond?
The SPCS 2026 Bond is a community investment focused on safety, security, and facility improvements. The bond includes constructing a secure indoor corridor connecting Platteview Central (PC) and Platteview High School (PHS), upgrading PHS, expanding classroom and program spaces, and building a new elementary school to support projected enrollment growth from the Oak Leaf development.
Why is the Board of Education pursuing this bond?
The bond addresses key facility needs: enhancing safety and security, modernizing buildings, creating additional learning space, and preparing for future enrollment growth. The secure indoor corridor between PC and PHS is a central component, allowing safe, weather-protected access and expanded instructional space.
When will the vote take place?
The mail-in ballot vote is scheduled for February 10, 2026.
How much will this bond cost?
Preliminary Project Budget:
PHS / PC Addition & Renovation
- ConstructionBudget: $41,500,000
- Other Project Costs Budget: $ 5,000,000
- Total Project Budget: $46,500,000
New Oak Leaf Elementary School
- Construction Budget: $30,000,000
- Other Project Costs Budget: $ 3,400,000
- Total Project Budget: $32,400,000
Total Bond Project Budget: $79,900,000
Decisions & Process
Is this plan final?
Yes. The Springfield Platteview Community Schools Board of Education voted unanimously on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, to move the proposed bond to a mail-in ballot election. Mail-in ballots will be due February 10, 2026.
Who makes the final decision?
The bond goes to a mail-in ballot vote and will be calculated on Feb. 10, 2026.
How was this list of projects developed?
Projects were identified based on facility assessments, enrollment projections, safety needs, and input from district leadership, staff, consultants, and community members.
Who decides what projects are included?
The Springfield Platteview Community Schools Board of Education will finalize the project list after reviewing community feedback and recommendations from district leadership and consultants.
Bond Basics
What is a school bond?
A school bond allows a district to borrow money for major construction or renovation projects. Bonds are repaid over time, typically through property taxes, and usually require voter approval.
Why do schools need bonds?
Bonds allow districts to improve or expand facilities without taking funds away from classroom instruction and educational programs.
Why can’t these improvements be paid for through the district’s regular budget?
The general fund supports day-to-day operations such as salaries, supplies, and utilities. Large construction projects exceed what the operating budget can cover, making bonds necessary for long-term facility needs.
What happens if a school bond does not pass?
If a school bond does not pass, the district cannot move forward with the needed construction or improvement projects. This means that planned upgrades to facilities, safety features, or classroom spaces would have to be delayed, reduced in scope, or possibly canceled.
The district may continue to maintain buildings and address urgent needs using existing funds, but those resources are limited and typically cover only day-to-day operations. In most cases, the district will revisit its long-term facility needs, gather more community feedback, and may consider proposing a revised bond in the future.
Improvements & Details
What safety and security improvements are included?
• A new connecting corridor between PC and PHS
• Safer, more secure entrances at both buildings
• Technology upgrades to strengthen communication and security systems
What facility upgrades are being considered?
- • Infrastructure improvements at PHS
• Additional classrooms to accommodate enrollment growth
• Expanded and modernized Career & Technical Education (CTE) spaces
• Updates and maintenance to extend the life of existing facilities
How will this bond prepare for future growth?
The bond addresses projected enrollment increases from the Oak Leaf development. It includes funding for a new elementary school and ensures that SPCS can grow responsibly and sustainably. It also helps us prepare for more kids at PC or PHS.
Funding & Use
Will this bond increase my taxes?
No. The district anticipates a 0% tax levy rate increase as part of the 2026 bond.
How can the district fund these improvements with no tax rate increase?
Through responsible financial planning, managing existing debt, and taking advantage of favorable bond conditions, SPCS can pursue these projects without raising the tax levy rate. (currently $0.575)
What can bond money be used for?
Bond funds can be used only for capital projects such as building new schools, renovating facilities, improving safety and security, and upgrading technology or infrastructure.
How is the money managed if voters approve a bond?
Bond funds are tracked separately from the district’s general fund. State and local regulations require strict reporting and independent audits to ensure transparency and accountability.
Getting Involved
How can I provide feedback or get involved?
Community feedback is encouraged. You can participate through public meetings, surveys, or by contacting the SPCS Board of Education. Engagement opportunities will be shared through district communication channels.
How can I make sure I receive updates about the bond?
Subscribe to district newsletters, attend informational meetings, or email spcscomm@spcsne.org to receive updates and a link to the community survey.
Will you have community meetings?
Yes.
• November 3, 2025 – 7 p.m. at PHS
• December 1, 2025 – 7 p.m. at PHS
More dates will be shared soon.
Who can I contact with more questions?
We’d love to hear from you! Our team will make sure you’re connected with the right person.
- Email: spcscomm@spcsne.org
- Phone: 402-592-1300 (Ask for Nichole Baugh)
Contact Information
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