On November 8, you have the opportunity to make your voice heard regarding the School District of Belleville Referendum. We encourage all voters to get out and participate in the election, and more importantly, we want all community members to have an informed decision.

We have a variety of resources on our website, http://www.belleville.k12.wi.us/district/referendum2016.cfm, that will give you a full overview of all issues the referendum will address, including a helpful Fact Sheet and Newsletter.

It is important to note that many issues being addressed by the referendum are related to basic needs that must be covered for our district’s children to have a safe, quality educational experience.

Here are a few examples:

Safety: The safety of all students is a priority. Our referendum includes plans for renovations at the Middle/High School to accommodate a more secure entrance, as well as site and safety improvements that feature upgrades to Hayden Road. At the Intermediate School, the plan includes site improvements to separate bus and parent drop-off/pick-up areas to prevent danger to students, staff and parents. The plan also includes upgrading security cameras and fire alarms at all schools.

Infrastructure: Even some of our most basic infrastructure throughout the district is in dire need of upgrades and repairs. The referendum includes plans to upgrade and/or replace plumbing, heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC), electrical, technology wiring, roof, and windows/doors at the Intermediate School, and roof and lighting at the Middle/High School. Having upgraded, reliable infrastructure ensures our schools will be able to remain in use for many years to come.

Accessibility: There are elements of our Intermediate and Middle/High schools that do not comply with the standards listed in the Americans with Disability Act (ADA). This means not all children who attend the schools have equal access to the facilities. Our referendum includes ADA compliance upgrades, such as lift and door hardware at each school.

These basic needs, safety, infrastructure, accessibility, must be addressed. A huge portion of the proposed referendum solution includes addressing these critical capital maintenance issues. As always, anyone who has any questions about the referendum is encouraged to call the district office at (608) 424-3315, or email Superintendent Pam Yoder at yoderp@belleville.k12.wi.us.