We have found that there’s not a single formula to passing a school bond vote. Every community is different in regard to their support of their school district, so each campaign needs to be tweaked and managed. However, Wolgast's School Facility Specialists have discovered a couple of tactics over the years as former School Superintendents on how to give every bond campaign a better chance for success and offer their expertise as part of our Pre-Bond Services.
First, the most important aspect of a successful millage election is staff and community involvement in the planning process. With that said, the likelihood of the passage of a millage proposal is determined days and even months prior to the election. The development of the bond proposal, the inclusion of groups that will be affected by it, along with the marketing plan and execution are all key ingredients that will help lead to a successful election.Another key is to focus on the supportive voters rather than spending your budget or energy on converting the opposed voters. Then help the supporters by reminding them of registration deadlines, and when and where to vote.
Sometimes Districts can qualify for state and federal funding programs to help supplement building projects. When qualifying for the additional funding, School Districts were able to ask voters to approve smaller bond amounts while securing enough budget to complete their construction needs. Bond elections pass as voters recognize the savings to their District’s general fund to help maintain safety and educational programs.
To find out more about the funding programs or to have a free seminar with our School Facility Consultants please call 800-WOLGAST.
