Meridian Schools Move Forward with Safety Projects, Rejects Bond

The Meridian Community Unit School District has decided to proceed with state-mandated Health and Life Safety (HLS) projects aimed at enhancing its current facilities. This decision follows a community survey that indicated insufficient support for a bond referendum intended to fund major construction projects. The survey, conducted by the independent research firm School Perceptions, gathered feedback from 822 residents regarding the district’s facility challenges and potential solutions.

The survey results revealed that only 27.2% of respondents supported exploring a bond referendum to undertake projects beyond the necessary HLS updates. Additionally, a proposal for a new pre-kindergarten to fifth-grade elementary school, which would be financed through a $47.8 million bond referendum, received weighted support from just 25.6% of residents. These findings indicate a clear hesitance within the community to endorse tax increases for significant new construction at this time.

Superintendent of Schools Michael Plourde expressed gratitude to the community members who participated in the survey, stating, “The message from the survey is clear: Residents value the high-quality education Meridian provides, but there is not an appetite for a tax increase to fund major new construction at this moment. The board is listening, and we will respect the community’s decision.”

Given this feedback, the district will concentrate its capital improvement initiatives on legally required HLS projects. These updates, which will be funded without a referendum, are essential for maintaining the safety and well-being of students and staff. The planned improvements include enhancements to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, roofing replacements, interior renovations, and various site work.

The survey also highlighted the community’s confidence in the educational programs offered by the district. A significant majority of respondents, approximately 84%, rated the district as “Great” or “Good” in delivering high-quality education. This ranking places Meridian in the 70th percentile compared to other districts.

“Our priority is to be responsible stewards of both our financial resources and our school buildings,” Plourde added. “Proceeding with these necessary health and life safety projects allows us to address our most pressing facility needs while honoring the feedback we received from our taxpayers.”

The Meridian Community Unit School District serves around 1,465 students across areas including Stillman Valley, Davis Junction, and Monroe Center. The district’s commitment to improving its facilities while respecting community input underscores its focus on providing a safe and effective learning environment for all students.