The Tucson Unified School District is set to begin the upcoming school year with new technology and improved air conditioning, thanks to a $480 million school bond that was approved by voters last year. Dr. Charlotte Carter, Bond Program Manager for TUSD, shared that this was the first such bond to pass in the district in two decades. She emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in executing these projects to build trust within the community for future bonds.
The district has already started implementing the first wave of projects funded by the bond. These projects include HVAC repairs, enhanced safety equipment, new signage, and updated educational technology. Carter expressed her excitement about the positive impact these improvements will have on students and the community as a whole. The prioritization of bond projects is based on facility conditions, costs, and feedback from the community to ensure effective allocation of resources.
In the initial phase of the project, 14 schools will receive air conditioning repairs and eight schools will get digital marquee signs installed. Funds will also be used to provide students with updated technology tools like Chromebooks and iPads, aligning with the district’s long-term goal of achieving a 1:1 technology ratio for students. Additionally, Automated External Defibrillator devices will be installed in 57 schools to enhance emergency response capabilities in cases of cardiac emergencies.
With completion of this year’s projects expected in fall, TUSD’s bond will continue to finance more initiatives over the next decade. The positive impact of these bond-funded projects is anticipated to create a more conducive learning environment for students and contribute to overall improvement of the community.
