Jennings School District Places Proposition J on August 6 Ballot

ST. LOUIS, MO – The Jennings School District (JSD) Board of Education voted to place Proposition J (Prop J) on the August 6, 2024, election ballot.

According to Jennings Superintendent Paula Knight, Ph. D. Prop J is a $9 million zero tax rate increase bond issue. “Zero tax rate means that If approved, Prop J will NOT increase the tax rate,” Dr. Knight explained. “Prop J funds would, however, go a very long way toward upgrading our facilities and grounds to enhance safety and the overall learning experience for students, staff and community.”

Prop J focuses on major capital improvements that cannot be covered under the district’s General Operating Budget (GOB). Dr. Knight said, “Bond issues are a way for school districts to raise funds for large-scale repairs and renovations.” She added, “Prop J funds would cover priority needs in five areas: Academics, Safety, Facilities, Technology and Athletics.” (See website for the tentative project list.)

Henry Ilges, director of Operations, said the last Jennings bond issue was in 2016 and, “Thanks to strong community support, those 2016 funds allowed us to take care of pressing needs, but many projects had to be held for a later time.” He added, "Since then, those deferred projects have seen further declines and have become priority projects in the effort to reinforce our aging facilities.”

Board President Miranda Jones explained,“We have a lot to celebrate in our school district! Annual Performance Report (APR) scores show marked improvement.  We are improving safety and security measures and planning for early childhood expansion. Our District is also improving efficiency by moving toward becoming a paperless environment and a host of other exciting initiatives are planned.”  She added, “Our students and staff are working hard and we want to ensure they have a safe, healthy and inviting learning environment.” 

For additional information about the August 6, 2024 election and Prop J, please visit the website atwww.JenningsK12.org/propj  where you will find all you need to make an informed decision on August 6.  Further updates will be provided over the summer.

About Jennings:

Founded in 1871, the Jennings School District serves 3,000 K-12 students in eight schools. JSD spans three communities, Jennings, Country Club Hills and Flordell Hills.

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