Uncertainty Lingers: $70M School Bond Decision Hangs by a Thread with 97% Ballots In!

In a closely watched election, voters in the Maricopa Unified School District are narrowly supporting a $70 million bond aimed at constructing two new schools and expanding existing high school facilities. Initial results this evening show the bond passing with 9,981 votes, representing 50.6% of the total, against 9,740 votes, or 49.4% opposed. 

With a margin of just 241 votes, the outcome remains uncertain. The bond is proving popular in the Province area, a community primarily housing residents aged 55 and older, where significant outreach efforts have been made by district officials. 

Conversely, precincts such as Santa Rosa, Hidden Valley, and Thunderbird Farms are showing resistance to the proposed funding. The new educational facilities will cater to students from kindergarten through eighth grade, with the first school in the Sorrento community set to open by July 2026, followed by another slated for July 2028. 

Moreover, the bond will finance the expansion of high school classroom space, with Desert Sunrise High School as a priority due to its anticipated growth. Officials indicated that additional work may also occur at Maricopa High School, reflecting the increasing student population. 

MUSD Superintendent Dr. Tracey Lopeman expressed her gratitude for community involvement in this key decision, emphasizing the bond’s impact on the district’s future. “We remain hopeful as votes continue to be counted,” she stated, highlighting the importance of public engagement. 

Chad Whittle, chair of the Yes for MUSD PAC, echoed the sentiment, thanking supporters for rallying around the need for expanded educational facilities. He noted the community’s proactive engagement in fostering a supportive environment for students. 

The proposed expansion includes significant upgrades for Maricopa High School, which has remained unchanged for 25 years. A workforce development space is expected to be ready by July 2027, while new classroom facilities at Desert Sunrise High School are set to open by July 2028. 

To oversee the proper allocation of bond funds, a committee composed of district representatives and community stakeholders will provide regular updates, ensuring transparency. Currently, MUSD serves around 9,500 students and has a significant facilities footprint of 1.1 million square feet, making it the largest employer in the area. 

Upon engaging voters, the MUSD team executed a robust campaign involving a dedicated website, podcast, and outreach to local clubs and groups. A political action committee was also formed to support fundraising for campaign efforts. 

Targeting older voters—who often have limited direct connections to school-aged children—proved strategic. Previous surveys indicated a 68% favorability rate for the bond issue, a sentiment echoed in independent polling. 

Among the priorities highlighted in surveys were career and technical education facilities, safety projects, and transportation needs. Ongoing discussions also emphasized the necessity for district growth, with strong support for student safety evident among respondents.