This November, Sheboygan residents will have the opportunity to make a crucial investment in the future of the Sheboygan Area School District (SASD) by supporting a $121 million referendum to rebuild and remodel Farnsworth and Urban Middle Schools. Both schools are nearly 100 years old, and their aging infrastructure poses significant challenges to the safety, functionality, and learning environment of current and future students.

Why This Referendum Matters

The referendum is designed to address several key issues with these middle schools:

Aging Infrastructure: The buildings at Farnsworth and Urban have served Sheboygan students for nearly a century. However, with outdated systems and infrastructure, these schools are in dire need of renovation to meet modern educational standards.
Safety and Security: Ensuring that students and staff are safe while at school is a top priority. Both schools require significant upgrades to improve safety features, such as secure entrances, modernized classrooms, and enhanced accessibility for all students and staff.
Inadequate Classrooms and Support Areas: Current classrooms are no longer sufficient for today’s educational needs, particularly with the increasing use of technology and new teaching methods. The buildings also lack adequate support areas for specialized services and student programming.

What the Referendum Will Achieve

If the referendum passes, the $121 million investment will enable SASD to rebuild and remodel Farnsworth and Urban Middle Schools on their current sites. These improvements will address critical needs, providing students with modern, accessible learning environments that support academic success, safety, and well-being. Key improvements include:

Modernized classrooms with natural light, designed for collaborative learning and integration of technology.
Safer entrances and drop-off zones for students, along with improved security measures throughout the schools.
Upgraded infrastructure, including heating, cooling, and electrical systems, to create more comfortable and energy-efficient learning spaces.
Expanded support areas for student services, ensuring all learners have the resources they need to succeed.

The Cost to Taxpayers

Supporting this referendum will come with an increase in the property tax rate. If the referendum is approved, the property tax mill rate would rise by $0.20 per $1,000 of property value. This translates to an additional $20 per year for a home valued at $100,000. While the cost is modest, the benefits of a revitalized educational environment for Sheboygan’s children are invaluable.

Why Your Support Matters

Investing in the future of Farnsworth and Urban Middle Schools is an investment in the future of Sheboygan’s students and the community. Quality school facilities not only enhance student learning but also boost property values and attract families to the area, strengthening the local economy.

As both schools approach their 100th anniversary, it’s time to modernize these spaces and create environments where students can excel in the 21st century. Supporting this referendum means giving students access to safe, innovative spaces that will foster their growth for decades to come.

Get Informed and Vote

A Community Informational Session will be held on October 17th at 6:30 p.m. at Farnsworth Middle School, providing residents with an opportunity to learn more about the referendum, ask questions, and take a tour of the school. Your participation is essential to understanding how this investment will impact students and the broader Sheboygan community.

By voting “YES” on November 5th, you are directly contributing to the success and future of Sheboygan’s next generation.