The citizens of South Bend showed their support of the city’s public schools by voting “yes” to both referendum questions on the ballot, agreeing to pay increased property taxes to fund, among other enhancements, salary increases for teachers, academic specialists for students, expanded pre-kindergarten, security upgrades, and other supports that will improve student outcomes.
Approximately 60% and 57% of voters supported the operating and capital referenda, indicating approval of the new direction in which Superintendent Dr. Todd Cummings plans to take the city’s public schools.
Statement from Dr. Cummings:
"I am grateful and humbled by the show of confidence and support for public education that South Bend voters demonstrated Tuesday. We have the hardest working educators in the State right here in South Bend. They will now have the tools to ensure that the children of South Bend receive an education second to none."
"Public education is about making it possible for children to pursue their dreams. It is about creating a quality of life and an economy in South Bend that will be sustainable for our children's lifetimes. Your support has made that possible."
"This is not the end of our campaign for excellence. We are just past the starting line. The teamwork continues. Ultimate victory will come when EVERY South Bend child is able to pursue happiness equipped with an excellent education: reading on grade-level, in safe and secure buildings, and graduating college and workforce ready.
"To those who opposed the referendum, we still have our work to do and I invite you to the table to continue our conversation. We will continue to build trust and create transparency."
Contact: Susan Guibert, Chief Communications Officer, at [email protected] or 574-286-4839.