Official Results: Voters APPROVE the Somerville Public Schools Bond Referendum!

Official results indicate voters have approved the two-question proposal to improve Somerville Public Schools including upgrades to science labs, security, auditorium and athletic facilities.

The results as of Election Day included 1,058 votes in favor and 338 opposed for Question 1 and 788 votes in favor and 601 opposed for Question 2.

The district administration and Board of Education thank the Ville community for learning about the referendum and taking the time to vote. We look forward to these improvements that will benefit all students!

Somerville Public Schools are deeply valued by the community with a reputation for setting and maintaining high standards in academics, athletics, and extracurriculars. Our schools stand out across the state and are vibrant places where our tight-knit community comes together for the benefit of current and future children!

Our school facilities, however, need attention to match the extraordinary things happening inside the academic spaces and on the athletic fields and performing arts stages. Some spaces haven’t been updated since the 1970s, and other infrastructure improvements are critical for aging facilities and equipment. Those improvements will be accomplished through the referendum to secure and take advantage of state aid to offset the local costs.

Please check this page often as we update the community on the progress of these exciting projects!

Results of the Bond Referendum:

  • $7.3 million in state aid.

  • Spaces original to the 1970s building (like the High School science labs and auditorium) will be updated.

  • Project costs will be spread out over time, like a homeowner borrowing money for home updates.

  • Enhanced facilities like a new gymnasium and turf field will expand opportunities for students with activities like athletics, band and color guard.

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PROJECTS AT A GLANCE

BENEFITS TO:

Student Learning – Academics is at the heart of everything we do here in Somerville. Projects like the High School science labs, which are original to the 1970s building, were carefully selected to improve the experience of every student in the district.

  • Bond projects, such as partial roof replacements and the addition of security vestibules, will allow the district to keep funds in the annual operating budget focused on educational programming.

  • Data backs up the fact that academics and extracurriculars go hand-in-hand. Having state-of-the-art facilities to match the caliber of student performances and competitions will only enhance our district’s commitment to helping students be well-rounded and successful in their future.

Athletics – The district’s athletic programs and facilities are highly valued by the community and improvements would expand the benefits to even more students and families.

  • A new turf field at Van Derveer will open scheduling options and allow for play in all weather.

  • A new gym and athletic spaces at the High School would also improve scheduling, avoid late-night games and practices, and show a commitment to the physical and mental health of students.

Performing Arts – Our performing arts programs are award-winning and are known for being best in the state. A new High School auditorium and gym would match that reputation.

  • A state-of-the-art auditorium would give a better impression of Somerville for the students and community members who use this space for student performances, productions, awards ceremonies, and community events.

  • A new gym that will be used by not only student-athletes, but also color guard, band, robotics, drumline, and more.


STATE AID + RESPONSIBLE FINANCIAL PLANNING

The district is gradually paying off debt from previous referenda through 2029. By timing a new referendum with this payoff and securing $7.3 million in state aid - only available through the voter-approved referendum - the owner of a home assessed at the average in Somerville would see a $14 per month increase.

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