KCSD School Board Approves Petition for November Bond Vote

KNOXVILLE, IA — On Monday evening, the Knoxville School Board approved a $15.3 million general
obligation bond referendum question that will appear on the ballot Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Petitions asking the board to place the referendum question on the ballot circulated the community in
recent months. A total of 763 signatures were collected from eligible voters, exceeding the required
minimum of 566.
“We want to thank everyone who took the time to sign a petition and learn more about the proposed
bond issue and the opportunities it presents for Knoxville and our students,” said Superintendent
Cassi Pearson. “As we approach the November referendum, we are committed to providing clear,
accurate information and meaningful opportunities for community members to ask questions and
engage in the process. We look forward to continuing these conversations and ensuring our
community has the information it needs to make an informed decision.”
An approved bond issue would provide the necessary funds to construct a new elementary school in
the Veterans District to replace Northstar Elementary, which first welcomed students in 1960. Facility
assessments by building professionals have identified more than $22 million in deficiencies at
Northstar.
The 73,000 square-foot school would include a new gymnasium designed to provide community
access outside school hours and accommodate youth events, tournaments, and other opportunities.
The proposed elementary school is the final capital project identified in the district’s strategic plan. In
recent years, KCSD has opened a new middle school, renovated and expanded West Elementary,
completed security improvements at the high school, and revitalized Randy Wilson Track.
An approved bond issue will not raise the district's property tax rates, as KCSD will maintain the
existing debt service levy of $3.65 per $1,000 of taxable property value.
The Veterans District is the city of Knoxville’s most active development area. A new school at the
proposed site would bring elementary students closer to other KCSD schools and facilities, community
parks, athletic fields, and housing developments.
Under the district’s plan, Northstar would not be demolished. Instead, the district would sell the
campus for redevelopment, such as for senior or multifamily housing, allowing it to add taxable value.
General obligation bond measures require voter approval of at least 60 percent to pass. More
information about the proposed bond for KCSD is available at www.knoxvillebond.org.