BOND REFERENDUM
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
POSITIONING SFCSD FOR THE FUTURE
On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, residents of the Sumner-Fredericksburg Community School District will vote on a general obligation bond issue not to exceed $16.25 million.
If approved by at least 60% of voters, the bond would fund critical facility improvements in both Sumner and Fredericksburg. The district would transition to two attendance centers and better meet the needs of students both today and for generations to come.
The proposed bond is estimated to have a property tax impact of $2.70 per $1,000 of taxable property value. For example, a home with an assessed value of $175,000 would see an approximate annual increase of $211.02.
In addition to the bond, the district has positioned itself to contribute up to $11.5 million from the statewide Secure an Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE) fund. SAVE is generated through a one-cent statewide sales tax, including revenue from high-tourism areas and strong retail economies across Iowa. These funds are allocated to school districts and can only be used for infrastructure and facility improvements.
By leveraging SAVE funds alongside a bond, Sumner-Fredericksburg can maximize the impact of local dollars, reduce the reliance on property taxes, and create a long-term, sustainable investment in educational facilities — without placing the full burden on local taxpayers.
A COMMUNITY PROCESS
The Sumner-Fredericksburg Community School District has spent considerable time and care evaluating the condition of its facilities and identifying opportunities to better serve students — both now and for generations to come.
Through detailed assessments of all buildings and grounds, the School Board and administration partnered with an advisory facility committee made up of community members. After thoughtful study and discussion, the committee presented a recommendation to the board in June. That recommendation supports transitioning the district to two attendance centers while ensuring a lasting, significant, and meaningful presence in both Fredericksburg and Sumner.
As part of the proposed plan, Durant Elementary in Sumner would be demolished. Fredericksburg Elementary would no longer serve as an active attendance center, but the district is committed to maintaining the grounds at a minimal yet responsible level — protecting it as an asset for future use.
This balanced approach allows the district to achieve long-term financial savings that can be reinvested in educational programs and student services, while preserving flexibility for growth. Should enrollment increase or community needs evolve, the Fredericksburg Elementary site would remain a viable option for future expansion or reactivation. This strategy reflects both fiscal responsibility today and smart stewardship for tomorrow.
To support the transition, significant investments would be made at the district’s current middle and high school campuses, including major upgrades to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. These improvements are especially needed, as only a small percentage of current learning spaces have air conditioning.
The proposed grade-level structure would place the district’s youngest learners—preschool through Grade 2—in both Sumner and Fredericksburg. Students in Grades 3 and 4 from both communities would attend school in Sumner, followed by Grades 5 through 8 in Fredericksburg. High school students would continue to attend classes in Sumner.
In addition, a portion of the proposed bond funding would support the expansion of technical and vocational education facilities at the high school. This investment will provide students with greater access to tools, training, and hands-on experiences in the skilled trades, equipping them for success in high-demand careers.
ENVISIONING THE FUTURE
These images show how we could create updated learning environments for our students. The final design will be a collaborative effort, shaped by community and staff feedback.
UNDERSTANDING THE BOND PROCESS
We strive to address any misconceptions about the bond process — especially around building designs and timelines.
The concepts shared in community meetings last year were preliminary and meant to spark conversation. These did not represent final decisions by the School Board or administration.
If the proposed bond issue is approved in November, the district will responsibly invest in professional design services and work closely with district staff and community members throughout the development of final plans.
The district remains committed to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and meaningful community input. Final design work will begin after bond approval and involve a deliberate 6-8 month process with architectural and construction management teams. This will include meaningful feedback from all teacher groups, community members, and school leaders.
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
We value your voice and welcome your input! Please use the form below to share any questions, thoughts, or feedback you may have about the proposed facility plans or the upcoming bond vote.
Your comments will be reviewed by district leadership and our bond team, and may help shape future communication, clarify community questions, and ensure we are addressing the topics that matter most to you. This form is more than a suggestion box — it’s a vital part of our commitment to transparency, two-way communication, and serving our communities well.
We look forward to hearing from you!
