Wichita Voters Will Decide School Bond in November 2026

The proposed $615 million school bond package seeks funding for building repairs and new educational facilities.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Secondary Education

Empty red brick school building facade with large windows under a bright overcast sky. — Wichita residents are scheduled to vote on a $615 million school bond package in November 2026, aimed at funding critical infrastructure repairs and new facilities. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Would you support a multi-million dollar bond measure to fund upgrades for schools in your area?

Wichita voters are set to decide on a $615 million school bond in November 2026. The proposal is divided into two separate ballot questions aimed at addressing infrastructure and construction needs across the district.

Why it matters

The bond proposal reflects the district's effort to address significant maintenance backlogs and modernize aging facilities. These updates are intended to ensure district buildings remain functional and capable of supporting students through infrastructure improvements.

The bond is split into a $407,100,000 first question and a $207,900,000 second question. Approval of the second question is contingent upon the first ballot question passing.

The players

United Teachers of Wichita

This is a local labor union that represents educators and advocates for district policy improvements.

Truesdell Middle School

This educational facility serves as a primary example of the infrastructure needs currently facing the district.

The details

The United Teachers of Wichita hosted a news conference and facility tours at Truesdell Middle School to demonstrate the necessity for HVAC and foundation repairs. Proposed projects include total school rebuilds and the construction of a new FutureReady Center for trade education.

Wichita voters will cast their ballots on the bond in November 2026.

Culture Shift

This proposal aligns with the Kansas statutory requirement for ballot question transparency in school finance elections. The two-part structure follows standard state-level mandates for presenting infrastructure projects to local taxpayers.

Residents should evaluate how the proposed HVAC and facility upgrades will affect their local school buildings and property tax expectations. Voters must recognize that the second ballot question can only move forward if the initial $407.1 million request is approved.

The takeaway

Voters should review the specific infrastructure needs highlighted by the union to understand the current state of school buildings. The dependency between the two ballot questions means residents must consider the full scope of the project before heading to the polls.