News Summary
The Dubuque Community School District is set to vote on a proposal to potentially close Jefferson Middle School and place a $70 million bond on the ballot. If approved, the funds would support a new middle school at Washington Middle School’s site in response to financial challenges and decreased enrollment. Discussions reveal concerns about Jefferson’s declining student population and maintenance costs, suggesting that consolidating into two middle schools could lead to budget savings. Community feedback is encouraged as the district navigates these changes.
Dubuque, Iowa – The Dubuque Community School District is poised to vote next week on a significant decision that could reshape middle school education in the area: the proposed closure of Jefferson Middle School. The board will determine whether to place a $70 million general obligation bond on the November 4 election ballot. This funding initiative is part of an overarching strategy to address financial challenges and declining enrollment figures.
If the bond receives the support of at least 60% of district voters, it will be combined with $51.9 million from the district’s one-cent sales tax (SAVE fund). This financial undertaking aims to fund a new $121.9 million middle school at the site of Washington Middle School. Following the potential closure of Jefferson Middle School, the new school would operate alongside Eleanor Roosevelt Middle School, serving as a feeder school.
Discussions among board members have indicated that the future of Jefferson is uncertain, regardless of the bond’s outcome. Concerns surrounding the school stem not only from financial factors but also from the condition of the facilities. The superintendent has highlighted the troubling decline in enrollment at Jefferson, which has dropped approximately 30% since 2020, bringing the current number to 374 students. In comparison, Roosevelt Middle School hosts 1,146 students, while Washington accommodates 603.
The cost of educating a student at Jefferson Middle School is higher than at both Washington and Roosevelt, with expenses reaching $20,000 per pupil, compared to $15,000 per pupil at Roosevelt and Washington. Board members recognize that consolidating to two middle schools could lead to annual savings of between $1.9 million and $2.5 million.
While the closure of Jefferson will not be immediate, the board faces challenges related to the school’s aging structure and the financial burden of maintenance and updates. The district is actively exploring new boundary lines for middle schools, aiming for a consolidation that aligns better with the high school feeder system.
The consideration of a bond proposal is not new. Past bond referendums, including a failed $150 million initiative in 2023, sought to address various projects incorporating a new middle school as part of the strategy. The board recognizes the imperative of addressing diminishing revenue, exacerbated by state funding failing to keep pace with inflation and declining enrollment rates.
For residents concerned about the financial impact of the potential bond, a tool has been made available to calculate possible property tax changes, which could increase the tax levy by around $1 per $1,000 of taxable value.
The district encourages public engagement, welcoming feedback on the proposed operational changes and the future of middle school education in Dubuque. Informational sessions are scheduled to address community questions and concerns, as the district strives to ensure high-quality educational opportunities while effectively managing operational efficiencies.
As the vote approaches, the Dubuque community awaits clarity on the future of Jefferson Middle School and the overall landscape of middle school education within the district.
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Additional Resources
- KCRG: Middle School Closure Among Possible Recommendations
- Wikipedia: Dubuque, Iowa
- CBS2 Iowa: Dubuque Community School District Bond Referendum
- Google Search: Dubuque Community School District
- KWWL: Dubuque School District Considers Middle School Consolidation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dubuque
- KCRG: Closing Dubuque Middle School Could Save District
- Google News: Dubuque Middle School Closure
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
