The Hastings Area School System Board of Education last month approved placing a $24,800,000 bond proposal on the November 3, 2026, ballot. If approved by voters, the proposal would fund improvements throughout the district with an estimated zero increase to the current bond millage rate of 5.75 mills.
The proposed bond is intended to address facility, infrastructure, safety, and instructional projects across the district. Planned projects were identified through the district's facility planning process and focus on updating school buildings, improving learning environments, and addressing aging infrastructure.
The proposal is organized around three priorities:
* Safe: Improving school security systems and life safety infrastructure for students and staff.
* Efficient: Addressing aging building systems and infrastructure while improving operational efficiency.
* Practical: Updating instructional spaces and district facilities that support current educational programs and day-to-day operations.
If approved, bond proceeds would be used for projects including:
* Modernizing classroom environments for core academic subjects at the high school
* Improving secure entryways at all schools
* Adding security glazing film
* Replacing public address (PA) systems
* Replacing fire alarm systems
* Improving aging and overcrowded kitchen spaces at all elementary schools
* Improving parking areas and traffic flow
* Renovating high school restrooms
* Increasing stadium bleacher capacity
* Replacing the district's aging bus fleet
* Modernizing the CERC and improving daycare classrooms and entry
* Improving Career and Technical Education (CTE) and hands-on learning spaces at the middle and high school
According to district estimates, the bond could be issued without increasing the current debt tax rate, which is projected to remain at 5.75 mills.
The election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Absentee ballots are expected to be available beginning Sept. 24.
Residents can learn more about the proposal by visiting the district website at hassk12.org
