Referendum Letter

Dear Residents,
Over the past few months, District 63 has been gathering community input on a possible bond referendum to address facility needs at our aging school buildings.

District residents told us they support our schools but are concerned about the tax impact of the proposed bond referendum.

We Revised the Plan.
Based on community feedback, the District reduced the scope of the proposal to more closely align with identified priorities.

What Remains in the Plan?
●    Safety and security improvements, including secure entrances, fire-rated doors, and updated fire protection and alarm systems.

●    Infrastructure upgrades, including new roofing, heating and cooling, plumbing, and electrical systems.

●    ADA accessibility improvements, including restroom renovations and new elevators.

●    The addition and reconfiguration of instructional spaces to address overcrowding.

●    Energy-efficiency upgrades.

What Changed?
●    The referendum amount and estimated tax impact have been reduced by 26%.
●    Plans for new gyms and a new cafeteria have been removed.
●    The scope of library renovations as well as classroom additions and improvements have been reduced.

Most District 63 school buildings are between 56 and 70 years old. Aging building systems, accessibility challenges, safety needs, and overcrowding continue to present challenges.

The revised plan is intended to address these needs while reducing the financial impact on taxpayers.

Board Action
The Board of Education unanimously voted to place a downsized $120.6 million bond referendum on the November 2026 ballot, $42.4 million less than the original proposal. The estimated tax impact has been reduced to $314/year, or $26/month, for a home with a fair market value of $350,000.

Committed to Maintaining One of the Lowest Tax Rates
If the bond referendum is approved by voters, the District’s tax rate would remain one of the lowest compared to its peer districts.

Learn More
In the coming months, residents will have opportunities to learn more about the proposal before casting their vote, including public meetings and school tours. Visit emsd63.org for meeting dates and times, updated project details, and a tax impact calculator.

Thank you for your participation in the community engagement process and for helping shape the future of District 63 schools.

Sincerely,

Dr. Shawn Schleizer,

Superintendent of Schools