Describes how school districts may significantly reduce the interest paid on school building bonds in states where the law permits advance refunding of school bond issues in response to declining interest rates. Presents two examples of how Indiana school districts used advance refunding to reduce the cost of debt service. (JG)

Chapter 6

This report provides data on 1976 bond elections and bond sales for financing public elementary and secondary school facilities and equipment. The annual report is intended for educators, school boards, legislators, and educational researchers who require up-to-date knowledge of school bond sales for planning future school bond programs. Data,…

Factors that produced defeat of bond issues and the actions taken by administrators of four California junior college districts to offset those factors are presented in this paper. Relevant findings from previous studies on school bond elections are summarized; the legal and fiscal context in which new California junior college districts operate…

This publication examines the influence of credit ratings on public debt financing and helps to resolve some of the developing controversy concerning this subject. It investigates the rating activities of the two private investment advisory firms--Moody's and Standard & Poor's--and the use of ratings by governmental borrowers, investors,…

In this instance, the Joint Committee on Higher Education in Washington State was directed to review capital funding methods at the 4-year institutions of higher education in the state. The major finding of the study, which emerged after an intensive survey of bond practices, was that some means should be found to enhance management effectiveness…

Describes how a Kansas school district obtained voter approval of a $21.5 million bond issue nine months after a successful $13.5 million tax increase. Provides tips on organizing a referendum campaign and managing the money once approved. The keys are seeking high interest-bearing accounts, knowing past spending patterns, and campaigning for a…

Suggests a strategy for effecting the passage of a school bond issue. Proposes procedures for forming and structuring a committee to evaluate the bond issue and for securing "yes" votes. (MCG)

The example of the Austin, Texas, Independent School District illustrates successful bond issue campaigning. Describes the district's 1983 effort from initial needs assessment, through placing the bond issues on the ballot and forming a campaign organization, to conducting specific campaign activities. (MCG)

A word tour of the new comprehensive high school in Alliance, Ohio. (CB)

The first part of this article deals with how to build an effective public relations program, which is essential in securing voter funding support. The second part outlines a step-by-step way to win funding issues. (Author)

The superintendent of the Durham County, North Carolina, schools explains the approach he took in gaining passage of a financial election. The method is that termed "voter crosspressure" in another article in this issue. (IRT)

By developing broad community input and support, a Louisiana district (Monroe City Schools) passed a $59 million property tax package. Offers 10 strategies for winning campaigns. (MLF)

Describes how, with thorough planning, focus, teamwork, and discipline, school systems in Houston and San Diego have proven that they can manage massive and complicated construction programs without becoming mired in financial and bureaucratic difficulties. (EV)

An Illinois school system won a bond issue election with a 30-day marketing campaign. Helpful marketing practices include identification of the target audience and finding the best medium to reach the audience. (MLF)