April 28, 2015
Hello Ann Arbor Public Schools Community,
We recognize the tremendous value of our schools in neighborhoods across Ann Arbor. When we consider quality community schools, the physical environment in our schools plays a critical role in ensuring a safe and positive learning environment for our students and staff.
On May 5th, we have a wonderful opportunity to vote on a Bond Proposal that will strengthen the Ann Arbor Public Schools while keeping our taxes at or below the current 2.45 millage rate.
This bond proposal will remodel, equip, and furnish existing school buildings, and will benefit all schools in the district. Included in this bond proposal are important items that need updating in our school district, specifically:
- Remodel school entrances for improved safety and security
- Replace school busses including GPS and safety equipment
- Replace musical instruments and repair performance facilities
- Replace classroom furniture
- Refurbish school athletic fields to safe, playable standards
- Update school playgrounds to ensure student safety and accessibility
If you would like to know more about the 2015 Bond Proposal, I invite you to attend the last scheduled Bond Community Meeting on:
Thursday, April 30th at 6:30 p.m. at Forsythe Middle School
2015 Bond Proposal information may also be accessed on our website at: http://www.aaps.k12.mi.us/aaps/home
Functional and well-maintained schools are a clear indicator of the health and vibrancy of a community. Investing in maintaining our schools is both a community priority and our shared responsibility. Keeping our 32 schools updated, in sound working order, and ensuring that they are sustainable places to deliver quality education, both for today’s students and for those to come, pays forward the public trust that has been provided to us by those who came before.
This 2015 Bond Proposal is estimated to remain at or below the current millage rate of 2.45 and will generate 33 million dollars for refurbishment and upgrades for every Ann Arbor Public School.
Strong communities are the home to quality public schools. I know that we are proud of our amazing students, our beautiful school buildings, and the important role they play in our vibrant Ann Arbor community.
Please join me on May 5 in voting YES in support of our children.
Sincerely,
Jeanice K. Swift
Superintendent of Schools
Ann Arbor Public Schools
I’m guessing most of the people reading this blog have kids in the A2 school district and won’t need much convincing. But if you’re still on the fence, just remember:
* Passing this proposal will not raise your property tax
* Unlike practically every other tax you pay, this is a dedicated tax: every penny will go, by law, to Ann Arbor’s schools
The language in the bond proposal is necessarily technical and complex. Don’t be put off. The big picture is simple: voting yes on May 5 means more money for Ann Arbor’s schools and no increase to your property tax.