The Raymore-Peculiar Board of Education unanimously approved placing a $45 million bond proposal on the April ballot, marking an important milestone in the districtโs long-range planning to support students, schools and the growing Ray-Pec community.
The proposed bond is a no-tax-rate-increase measure. If approved by voters, the districtโs debt service tax rate is projected to remain the same, based on current state school finance law.
The bond proposal reflects nearly two years of thoughtful work, including facility assessments, research, surveys and input from community members, staff and students. In the coming days, the district will share additional information to help the community understand the proposal and its identified priorities.
At the center of the bond proposal is a shared commitment to creating safe, supportive and engaging learning environments that allow students to thrive.
Safety and security is a top priority. The districtโs first-ever director of safety and security has conducted assessments across schools, identifying opportunities to strengthen systems and improve safety measures for students and staff.
Early childhood learning spaces are also a key focus. The proposal includes renovations to the Shull Early Learning Center, which houses the districtโs early childhood program. Planned updates would modernize the 50-year old aging facility and create a space more intentionally designed for early learners.
Expanded student learning and activity opportunities are another component of the proposal. Facility improvements would support the creation of career-focused and extracurricular opportunities such as Junior Reserve Officers' Training (JROTC), drone technology and robotics. Future opportunities in athletic training, sports medicine, and electronic sports are possible.
Student activities and site improvements are designed to enhance safety, functionality, and the overall experience for students and the community. Proposed projects include upgrades to the high school stadium to create a safer, more welcoming environment for students, families, and fans. Additional improvements are planned for baseball and softball facilities, as well as a South Middle School stadium. The proposal also envisions an all-purpose facility that supports student learning, activities, and community use.
The proposal also emphasizes taking care of existing facilities through investments in maintenance and warehousing, supporting long-term stewardship of district resources.
In the weeks ahead, Ray-Pec will continue sharing information about the bond proposal, with the district website serving as the primary source and updates shared on the districtโs Facebook page.