Voters to decide on millions in bonds for schools

Across the state, dozens of school districts, many in the Phoenix area, are asking voters to increase their property taxes to pay for schools after years of state cuts.

Districts are allowed to hold override elections to boost funding for everything from teacher salaries to classroom equipment, and supporters say the votes are necessary after Gov. Doug Ducey’s budget this year shifted financial burdens from the state to local governments.

It appears an override and bond has been passed in Gilbert.

Thank you #GilbertAZ. Voters pass the Override and Bond! #ichoosegps

— GPSCHOOLS (@GPS_District) November 4, 2015

Gilbert Schools Superintendent Dr. Christina M. Kishimoto released a statement immediately following the close of elections.

“We are thankful that our Gilbert Community members have shown their support of public education. The passage of the Override and Bond Election reflects the commitment of Gilbert residents to providing an excellent education for all students. Our Teachers, Principals, and Staff have shown a deep level of commitment to our District and will continue to provide an innovative and competitive learning environment for our students.”

Gilbert Public Schools Governing Board President Lily Tram added her thanks.

“The Gilbert Public Schools Governing Board would like to offer its deepest gratitude to those who voted to pass the Override and Bond this year. Thank you to all of the community members who worked so hard to make this election a success…The Board will work diligently to ensure that Gilbert Public Schools remains a competitive and top-rated school district.”

The elections come just days after the Legislature last week voted to pump $3.5 billion in K-12 spending over the next 10 years to settle a separate dispute over how the state shortchanged districts of voter-mandated inflation increases when the recession hit.

 

See unofficial election results here.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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