On February 21, citizens residing in the Oregon School District will vote on a $33 million referendum to modernize and improve our school facilities. If approved, this project would make Oregon a School District of Distinction, providing new educational and community spaces, significantly improving school safety and security, and modernizing athletic facilities.

School District Video Introduction to Feb. 21 Referendum

Voting “YES” on February 21 would add $96 a year to the average homeowners annual property tax bill. Of course, property taxes are deductible on individual federal income tax return, reducing the overall tax impact of a “YES” vote. What will you get for this money? A few highlights:

• Remodel and develop safe and secured entrances at both the middle school and high school to ensure safety and security for our students.
• Update the libraries and technology centers at both the middle and high schools to prepare students in a globally competitive world.
• Renovate and build a new science lab, four classrooms and flexible learning spaces at the high school.
• Build a hands-on science lab (eco-center) at the middle school to strengthen and further develop our biotech, agri-business and “green” curriculums.
• Replace our 1977 high school field house with a modern and efficient facility featuring bigger locker rooms, more practice areas and a fitness center open to the community to promote lifetime fitness.
• Build a competition soccer field with artificial turf. This would serve both district and youth needs, and has the potential to be a revenue source by attracting regional tournaments.
• Develop a large, airy and open “Third Space” at the high school with wireless Internet, meeting tables and learning spaces for both students and community members.

We all know that a strong school district makes a strong community, and a strong community makes a strong school district. We have a history of success in Oregon of supporting our schools. Let’s continue this tradition and vote “YES” on February 21.