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Unofficial Results: Voters APPROVE the Somerville Public Schools bond referendum!
Unofficial 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 tally as of Tuesday night included 1,058 votes in favor and 338 opposed for Question 1 and 788 votes in favor and 601 opposed for Question 2. The totals will be updated over the next few days as officials count mail-in ballots that were postmarked by the election date and verify provisional ballots. Updates will be posted on this website.
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 can be accomplished through a referendum to secure and take advantage of state aid to offset the local costs.
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 would 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 would also be used by not only student-athletes, but also color guard, band, robotics, drumline, and more.
WHY NOW? 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 a voter-approved referendum - Somerville residents would actually see a $12 per month decrease on the school debt portion of their tax bills if Question 1 passes. If Question 1 and 2 pass, the owner of a home assessed at the average in Somerville would see a $14 per month increase.
*Question 2 can only pass if Question 1 passes.
WATCH A RECORDING OF THE VIRTUAL INFORMATION FORUM
