Voters on Tuesday, Nov. 4 approved West Des Moines Community Schools’ $135 million general obligation bond, which will fund key facility updates and new construction across the district. 

According to unofficial results from the Polk County Auditor’s Office, the measure received more than 69% of votes, surpassing the 60% supermajority required to pass. Results are unofficial until certified by the County Board of Supervisors.

Public Measure Results: WDMCS Bond Referendum

(Note: A 60% supermajority is needed for the measure to pass)

• Yes: 8,246 votes (69.35% - passed)
• No: 3,645 votes (30.65%)
   

“We are grateful for our community’s trust and partnership,” said Superintendent Dr. Matt Adams. “This vote speaks to the strong relationship between our schools and our community. Because of the investment our community made today, together, we’ll build a strong future for tomorrow.” 

View Bond Details

The bond funds will be used to accomplish the proposed projects outlined in the two pillars of the plan. Pillar I strives to enhance student learning while Pillar II sets out to expand access to extracurricular and co-curricular activities.  

Pillar I: Foundation

To enhance student learning, Pillar I will modernize and update all district buildings, with a focus on instructional spaces. This includes:

• Improving the physical learning environment—everything from paint and furniture to lighting and air quality—to enhance student learning
• Updating district playgrounds
• Reconfiguring the main entrance at Valley High School for enhanced safety and security

Pillar II: Access

To expand access to extracurricular and co-curricular activities, Pillar II will focus on facility upgrades and new construction. This includes:

• Constructing a new multipurpose student activities facility on district-owned land south of the West Des Moines Public Library
• Constructing a new mid-sized performing arts center for district use at Indian Hills Junior High
• Constructing a new band and equipment storage facility at Valley Stadium
• Upgrading the track and field facility at Valley Southwoods Freshman High School
• Upgrading technology and equipment at Valley High School's Staplin Performing Arts Center

Next Steps

Before the first phase of projects begins, district administrators and frk architects + engineers will undergo an extensive designing process with the input of key stakeholders. The district will continue to share updates on timelines and project progress at wdmcs.org/bond. 

“WDMCS has a proud history of community support for education,” Adams said. “This vote continues that tradition and allows the district to live out its mission to educate, empower, and inspire lifelong learners for years to come.”