Kent district to hold seven school bond community meetings

Voters can find out about the Kent School District’s proposed $495 million bond during seven community conversations.

The measure will be on the April 25 special election ballot.

“The 2023 bond will continue our commitment to equity, excellence, and community by making districtwide safety, security, and ADA improvements to provide safe and healthy learning environments for our students,” according to a district statement. “This bond funds facility improvements, technology infrastructure, and ensures all students have access to ADA-compliant outdoor learning spaces, including playgrounds, athletic facilities and sports fields.”

If the bond is approved with the required 60% passage, the district plans to spend $132.3 million on facility improvements (roofs, boilers, floors, HVAC); $120 million on student health and safety (upgrade access controls, replace cameras, replace alarm systems); $100 million for outdoor program improvements (synthetic turf fields, ADA compliance, baseball and softball fields); $70.5 million on districtwide program growth (furniture, new warehouse, early learning space); and $26.7 million on technology.

Bond meetings

(The bond conversations will run from 6 to 7:30 p.m.)

• Thursday, Jan. 26, at Kent-Meridian High School Library, 10020 SE 256th St.

• Thursday, Feb. 9, at Northwood Middle School Library, 17007 SE 184th St.

• Thursday, Feb. 23, at Meeker Middle School Library, 12600 SE 192nd St.

• Thursday, March 9, at Meridian Middle School Library, 23480 120th Ave. SE

• Thursday, March 23, at Mill Creek Middle School Library, 620 Central Ave. N.

• Thursday, April 6, at Cedar Heights Middle School Library, 19640 SE 272nd St.

• Thursday, April 20, at Mattson Middle School Library, 16400 SE 251st St.