Voters overwhelmingly approve school bond proposal

Tuesday was a momentous day for the Bartlesville Public School District as voters approved a $36.72 million bond issue. Just over 5,800 citizens voted in the election and the proposal passed with an astounding 76.3% voting yes.

“This is a great day for our students, staff, teachers and the community of Bartlesville. Spearheaded by our outstanding leader, Superintendent Dr. Gary W. Quinn, we have been formulating a plan for our secondary schools for several years. I am extremely proud of this milestone achievement,” said BPSD Interim Superintendent, Chuck McCauley.

Approval of the bond issue means updates and additions are coming to BPSD middle schools and Bartlesville High School. Approximately $1.4 million in security upgrades will also take place throughout the district.

Specifically, Bartlesville Mid-High School students will move to BHS where a large addition will be added including a freshman academy. Central Middle School will receive a major renovation and construction of a new gymnasium. Madison students will move to what is currently the BMHS facility where renovations and updates will be completed as well.

McCauley stated, “Our middle school facilities will now to be brought up to a standard we can all be proud of.”

The BPSD will move quickly to ensure the projects are completed as soon as possible. It is expected that the security enhancements will begin to be implemented in early 2014. With construction of the BHS additions anticipated to begin in summer 2014, it will be a busy time throughout the BPSD over the next few years. Overall, all projects are tentatively projected to be completed by the end of summer 2016.

Bartlesville Board of Education President, Doug Divelbiss, commented, “We are ready to move quickly and execute on the plan.”

The Bartlesville Public School District looks forward to the exciting times that lie ahead. Thank you voters for your outstanding support!