Prop FAQs

  • The Middle School has aging building systems and spaces that no longer fully support current programs. The proposed projects focus on safety, deferred maintenance, and updating academic, dining, athletics and fine arts spaces. 

  • Projects include renovating and expanding the cafeteria and kitchen, adding a new band hall, updating the gym, modernizing academic areas, improving the main entry for security, and adding exterior classroom windows. 

  • No. The proposed work does not change grade configurations or increase student capacity. It updates existing spaces. 

  • The current band space is limited and adjacent to the cafeteria area. A new band hall would allow the cafeteria to function properly while providing appropriate space for the band program. 

  • No. The bond proposal does not change attendance zones or student assignments. 

  • No. The proposal focuses on renovating existing support facilities, not building new stadiums or expanding seating. 

  • Traffic flow and drainage issues affect daily campus operations and safety. These projects address long-standing concerns. 

  • Improvements include updated roads and parking, and fencing to better define campus boundaries. 

  • Any access changes would focus on safety during the school day while maintaining appropriate community use. 

  • The district plans to use bond funds to modernize maintenance equipment and systems in the elementary, intermediate and middle schools, including: Roofing, Finishes, HVAC(air conditioning/heating), plumbing, electrical, and building protection systems. These projects will be prioritized by age and condition.

General FAQs

  • The bond would fund updates to building systems, safety features, and learning spaces. A bond allows the district to address long-term facility projects that cannot be paid for through the regular operating budget. 

  • State law limits how M&O funds can be used. Large facility projects must be paid for with voter-approved bond funds. 

  • If the bond does not pass, the district would continue to operate current facilities and address only the most urgent needs as funding allows. Major renovations and new facilities would be delayed. 

  • If approved, project planning would begin after the election. Construction would occur in phases over multiple years. 

  • Projects were recommended by a community Facility Planning Committee made up of parents, staff, students, and residents. The committee reviewed facility conditions, toured campuses, studied costs, and ranked projects over six meetings. The final list reflects the projects that received the strongest overall support from the committee. 

  • No. Bond funds may only be used for the projects approved by voters. 

Finance FAQs

  • Bond funds can only be used for facilities and capital improvements, such as buildings, renovations, and infrastructure. They cannot be used for salaries, utilities, classroom supplies, or daily operating costs.

  • School bonds are repaid through the Interest & Sinking (I&S) portion of the school tax rate, which is separate from the Maintenance & Operations (M&O) tax rate.

    • M&O (Maintenance & Operations): Pays for daily school operations like staff, utilities, and instructional materials.

    • I&S (Interest & Sinking): Pays for voter-approved bond debt. It cannot be used for operations.

  • No. If approved, the bond would only affect the I&S tax rate, not the M&O tax rate.

  • Based on current estimates, the proposed bond would result in an estimated 26.41¢ increase to the I&S tax rate. Actual impact may vary depending on final bond terms and future property values.

  • Your school tax bill is based on your taxable value, not your market value. Taxable value reflects exemptions, including the $140,000 state homestead exemption for homeowners.

  • Based on current estimates:

    • $150,000 home value: about $2.20 per month (≈ $26 per year)

    • $200,000 home value: about $13.21 per month (≈ $158 per year)

    • $250,000 home value: about $24.21 per month (≈ $291 per year)

    • $300,000 home value: about $35.21 per month (≈ $423 per year)

    These are estimates only and may change.

  • Homeowners age 65 and older who have applied for and received the age-65 homestead exemption have a school tax ceiling. Their school taxes cannot increase above that frozen amount due to the bond.

  • Yes. The most recent bond approved by voters was in 2009. The proposed bond would address facility needs that have developed since that time.

  • Elkhart ISD has a AAA bond rating through the Permanent School Fund guarantee, which reflects strong financial management and helps the district borrow at lower interest rates.

  • Voters make the final decision. The bond would only be issued if approved by Elkhart ISD voters in the May 2026 election.

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