WELLINGTON, KS — The USD 353 Board of Education has officially called for a special bond election on March 3, 2026, presenting a revised proposal that directly responds to community feedback following the November 4 general election. The new proposal is a significantly scaled-back version of the previous measure, focusing exclusively on the district’s most urgent facility needs and deferred maintenance.
After the narrow failure of the $22.6 million proposal in November, the Board of Education engaged in discussions to identify “critical need” projects versus “highly desired” enhancements. The result is a more targeted plan with three primary changes:
- Significant Reduction in Cost: The total bond amount has been reduced by nearly $5 million, dropping from $22.6 million to $17,850,000.
- Focus on Immediate & Critical Needs: The district has removed several projects—including theater seating, a new high school football restroom, and certain parking lot replacements—to prioritize space to support "21st-century learning" and structural integrity of the facilities. The focus is now on keeping buildings dry, conditioned, and safe.
- Increased Affordability for Taxpayers: By reducing the scope, the financial impact has been minimized. While a slight tax increase is required to fund these essential repairs, the projected impact for a homeowner is now approximately $1.92 per month (based on an average $100,000 home).
The $17.85 million proposal targets specific infrastructure failures that, if left unaddressed, will lead to higher emergency repair costs and potential disruptions to the learning environment. Remodeling the Middle School Ag Shop remains a priority to provide students with needed space for 21st Century Learning Opportunities.
Roofing & Structural Integrity The district will install new roofs with25-year warranties at Eisenhower, Kennedy, Lincoln, Wellington Middle School, and Wellington High School. These upgrades are vital to preventing water damage to interiors and protecting the community's previous investments.
- HVAC & Energy Efficiency
- Elementary Schools: New rooftop HVAC units at Eisenhower and Kennedy.
- High School: Replacement of aging chillers at Wellington High School to ensure consistent climate control.
- Windows: Energy-efficient window replacements at Eisenhower, Kennedy, Sumner County Academy, and the District Office, plus a new cafeteria window curtain wall at the Middle School.
- Career & Technical Education (CTE) Improvements
- Old Ag Building (WMS): A full remodel of the classrooms and Ag Shop in the Old Ag Building at Wellington Middle School to support modern vocational training and hands-on learning.
- Safety & Accessibility
- Parking Lots: Milling and resurfacing at Eisenhower and Kennedy, with crack repairs and resealing at the High School to prevent total pavement failure.
- District Track Auxiliary Buildings: Construction of a small building for restrooms, concessions, and a press box; replacement of ticket booths and gates; and expanded bleacher seating with full ADA access.
"We heard the community's concerns regarding the cost and scope of the November proposal," commented Superintendent Adam Hatfield. "The March 3rd bond is a 'maintenance-first' plan. It addresses the leaking roofs and failing HVAC systems that are currently hindering our ability to provide a 21st-century education, but at a price point that respects the taxpayer."
Voters will head to the polls on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. For more information on the bond projects and the financial impact, please visit the district's Bond Info. page.