Statistical Poll shows support for funding measures

A recent ballot measure survey shows support for two ballot measures being considered to address priority facility and academic programming needs in Adams 12 Five Star Schools.

Magellan Strategies conducted the survey from March 20 to April 7. The survey of 1,738 registered voters within district boundaries has a margin of error of +/- 2.34% at the 95 percent confidence interval. The survey data were weighted to represent the demographics of presidential election year turnout within the district.

Key Findings

• Less than half (44%) of those surveyed believe Adams 12 Five Star Schools has the financial resources needed to provide students with a quality education
• When asked about a ballot measure being considered that would allow the district to increase debt by $830 million, without raising taxes, for school building improvements and upgrades, 71% of respondents indicated they would approve such a measure.
• The survey also asked about an 8.129 mill property tax increase, known as a mill levy override, to fund programs such as the expansion of career and technical education offerings, and hiring and retaining highly qualified educators. Survey results indicate a 55% approval rating for this potential ballot measure. 

Factors that Increase Support
In addition to gauging voter support, the survey also presented information about why these ballot measures are being considered. After reading the information, respondents were asked if they were more likely to vote yes and approve a ballot measure.

• After learning that some of the district’s schools have leaking roofs, faulty cooling and heating systems, and dysfunctional plumbing, 75% of respondents indicated they are more likely to approve a ballot measure.
• 72% of respondents were more likely to approve a ballot measure after it was shared that career and technical education exposes students to different career pathways, but the district has a waitlist with 178 students who want access to those programs.
• When it was shared that the district would like to provide more opportunities for students to build life skills and provide greater access to mental health  support, 69% of those surveyed said they are more likely to approve a ballot measure.

Feedback received through the district’s ongoing community engagement work around Blueprint, the district’s comprehensive academic programming and facilities plan, helped inform the survey about potential ballot measures. Learn more about Blueprint.

To see more of the survey results, view the Magellan Strategies presentation of findings.