George – Little Rock Bond 2026

A: George-Little Rock’s tax rate is expected to remain among the lowest when compared to neighboring school districts. The district has worked to develop a plan that addresses facility needs while minimizing the impact on local taxpayers.

Chose to edit a copy for your own calculations.

A: If bids come in higher than expected the Board of Education has several options to consider. One option is to work with
the architects and engineers to carefully review the construction plans and identify potential cost saving adjustments
without reducing quality. Another option is to pursue additional fund sources, such as grants or private donations, to help
offset the project’s cost.

A: Yes. Furnishing allowances are included in the project budget. The district will reuse existing furniture where appropriate and supplement it with new items as needed for the renovated spaces.

A: The two bond questions for the ballot will be announced on July 20th. We will post the official ballot language here as soon as it is released.

A: Anyone who lives in the George-Little Rock Community School District, is 18 years of age, and is registered to vote is eligible to cast a ballot in the election. Individuals who are not yet registered may do so prior to election day or at the polling location on election day. If a voter did not participate in the most recent election, they may be required to re-register before voting on election day.

A: The polling locations for this election will be:

George Community Building (117 South Main Street, George, IA 51237)

Little Rock Town and Country Building ( 409 Main Street, Little Rock

Forster Community Building (404 1st Avenue, Rock Rapids, IA 51246)

Doon City Hall (103 3rd Avenue, Doon, IA 51235)

Boyden Demco Community Center (714 Main Street, Boyden, IA, 51234)

United Methodist Church Sibley (700 11th Ave NE, Sibley, IA, 51249)

A: If you are unable to vote on election day, you may vote early by requesting an absentee ballot. Absentee ballots can be requested through the county auditors’ office by completing a ballot request form.

A: General Obligation bond referendums must receive at least ‘60% “yes” votes in order to pass. In recent years, many school bond elections have been decided by only a small number of votes, showing just how important every single vote is. Each person’s participation truly matters in the determining the outcome.

A: No. Bond funds cannot be used for teacher or staff salaries, raises or other employment-related expenses. These are funded through the district’s general fund. Bond money is strictly designated for facility and infrastructure projects, such as building improvements, renovations, and construction.

A: Construction will be carefully planned so there is as minimal interference as possible with student learning. The architect will work with the School Board to develop a phased schedule that prioritizes safety and reduces disruptions. The elementary school is expected to see the least impact, while the high school renovations may create more noticeable activity due to the size and complexity of the work. Even so, the project team will phase construction to keep interruptions to a minimum.

A: No additional classes or teaching positions will be added directly due to the renovations and additions. However, the improved learning spaces and updated facilities may help support the expansion of existing programs and create opportunities for future educational growth.

A: Updated and more efficient facilities may help reduce long-term maintenance and operating costs over time. In addition, investing in local school improvements can help prevent the need for students and families to travel to neighboring districts for educational opportunities and extracurricular activities, which can add extra time and traveling expenses.

A: If the bond referendum is approved, design work would begin in November. Construction drawings would be developed through the winter and early spring, with bids coming back in late spring. That schedule would allow construction to start soon after school lets out, with the goal of completing the project by the fall of 2028.

A: Upgrading school facilities has proven positive impact on student learning. These improvements support updated technology, flexible learning spaces, improved safety and security, and better accessibility for all students. They also enhance collaboration and hands-on learning opportunities. Research shows that factors such as improved lighting, air quality, and learning environments can positively impact student engagement and achievement.

A: Even if you do not currently have students in the school, supporting the referendum helps ensure a strong community for everyone. At some point, others supported the schools you attended, even if they did not have children in the system themselves. Strong schools are key part of a strong community and help support long-term stability. When we invest in students, we invest in the future neighbors, workers, and leaders who will shape this town. Strong schools also help young people see a future here, also a place worth returning to, building in, and raising their own families. Delaying needed improvements can also lead to higher costs in the future.

A: Social security income is not subject to income surtax. Because of this, seniors on fixed incomes may benefit from a lower property tax rate when more funding comes from an income surtax, since their social security benefits are not taxed.

A: Yes. HVAC and electrical system upgrades are included as part of the overall facility plan. The project will address identified needs and include necessary repairs and improvements to support safe, reliable, and efficient building operations.