The Shawnee Mission School District is strategically focusing resources on state-of-the-art facilities to meet its mission and objectives. On March 23, 2026 Deputy Superintendent Dr. David Stubblefield presented to the Board of Education and community about this ongoing work and how it might inform a potential bond referendum.

Click here to view the presentation slides.

Click here to view a video of the presentation The presentation starts at about 1:43:00.

“We understand the positive impact that facilities have on all aspects of the Strategic Plan,” shared Dr. David Stubblefield, deputy superintendent. “We view our schools not just as buildings, but as hubs for community connection and collaboration.

Soon, a new Strategic Plan Action Team will build on the important work our community has already done in regard to facilities planning and take on the next steps of considering a bond.

The Work So Far- Highlights from Action Step 6.1.1, Board planning

Strategic Plan Action Step 6.1.1, relating to the Facilities Strategy in the district Strategic Plan, asked team members to create a list of recommended facility projects. The presentation provided details about this work.

It featured details about a phased approach, approved by Board members in October 2020, to achieve facility goals. Presenters also shared details about area district levies, and a review of projects completed through the 2021 Bond.

Improvements from the 2021 bond included five elementary school rebuilds, improvements to elementary playgrounds, additions to middle school buildings, weight room additions, restroom renovations at high schools, and building improvements at high schools. Additionally, an Early Childhood Education Center is expected to open in August 2027 as a result of the 2021 bond and the district’s strong stewardship of funds. Click here for more archived information about the $264 bond, approved by Shawnee Mission voters in 2021.

Budget Basics and Initial Facility Improvement Considerations

As the update continued, presenters provided information about the district budget and how expenditures are covered, particularly the difference between operating and capital funds. Capital Outlay Funds are utilized for construction and repairs, maintaining and equipping school district property, and equipment necessary for school district purposes, including computer software and uniforms.

Presenters then provided a look at the needs assessment process that could inform a potential 2027 bond as well as recommended facility projects. Initial recommendations can be viewed as presented at the March 23 meeting by clicking here.

Next Steps in the Process

Superintendent Dr. Michael Schumacher shared that the next step in this process will be a kickoff for Action Team 6.1.2. That work will include analyzing the recommendations listed thus far and strategically narrowing the scope in order to recommend a no-tax increase bond to the Board.

“A lot of work needs to take place before a potential resolution comes before you in November of this year,” Dr. Schumacher said. “Our goal is to have a no mill levy increase for this bond.”

Important Dates:

Aug. 31, 2026- A Bond Resolution draft is expected to be presented to the Board of Education

November 9, 2026- A Board meeting resolution approval for consideration

March 2, 2027- A potential date for a mail ballot election for voting on the referendum.

Click here to view the presentation.