More than a year of letters, votes, emails, ad meetings has gradually turned from a trickle into a flood of information. The project is far from complete, but according to many administrators, the future is big and bright for Clayton Schools and the city as a whole.
Even though a tornado hit the community in May, Superintendent Dr. Nisha Patel stated that it did not impact project development and no resources had to be reallocated from the project to tornado recovery efforts. In early June, the district assembled a team of architects and a construction manager to help advance the concept. However, just because a natural disaster did not delay the plan does not mean it has been smooth sailing.
“A challenge is getting the whole community involved,” Patel said. “We are trying hard to make sure the community, not only our students and staff, but individuals who may not have direct ties to the district know more [about the project].”
If the decision is made to place a ballot measure in April 2026 election, the BOE would need to approve the ballot language in January.
“[We must] tell [the district’s] story so that everybody understands what our needs are [and] what we need to do to address those needs,” Patel said.
According to Patel, “[the district has] to come up with the exact ballot language of what it is we’re going to ask the voters to approve, whether it’s a zero tax increase or a tax increase.”
A budget of $100 million or less is unlikely to result in a tax increase; any amount above that could lead to one.
“Today, it is safe to say the current debt levy will support borrowing $100 million without increasing taxes,” Patel said.
Patel also shared an example of a tax increase for a property with a market value of $500,000.
“If the size of the borrowing increased to $150 million, the tax bill in this example property would increase by $223,” Patel said.
The budget is just one part of the process, as many ideas for the facilities plan have not progressed past the concept stage. For instance, the idea of demolishing one of the elementary schools was quickly rejected due to community pushback. One idea that has gained traction, however, is relocating Gay Field to Shaw Park.
“Anytime you could limit the amount of times that students have to get in vehicles and drive, you’re making their lives safer,” Athletic Director Steve Hutson said.
In January, families will learn about the district’s plans and budget, and in April, they will have the opportunity to approve it at the polls.
“We have to continue to be competitive as a school district, not only locally, but nationally,” Patel said.
