Examines New York voters' overwhelming approval of 1995 statewide district budgets, in light of state budget approval history, experts' analyses of factors influencing budget approval, and results of a survey of initial school district budget votes conducted annually over the past five years. Community involvement and modest tax increases were key…

Although each school district and its bond finance campaign are unique, success at the polls depends on identifying the community's particular voting groups and developing matching strategies. Year-round public-relations programs are essential. Planners should study other districts' successful strategies, pool all available resources and talents,…

Outlines several major areas involved in issuing bonds to finance school buildings and other projects. Basic financing structures include general obligation bonds, lease revenue bonds, and tax anticipation notes. Explains competitive or negotiated sale process and the roles of financial advisor, underwriter, and bond counsel. (MLF)

Discusses the renovation process for preserving a community high school and the role of the architectural firm in gaining community support for the required bond issues. The architectural firm's design responses to school board requirements, and new student needs are described. The new school's floor plan is included. (GR)

Compares state funding for school infrastructure needs between 1993-94 and 1998-99. Found 164 percent increase in state infrastructure funding. Examines state funding mechanisms such as flat grants, equalized grants, categorical grants, and full-state funding. Fourteen states provide no state infrastructure funding; most rely instead on…

Examines the impact of variations in capital stock (physical assets) across school districts on student achievement. Uses level of bond indebtedness as a proxy for capital stock. Finds significant positive correlation between district per-student bonded indebtedness and student achievement measured by district mean scores on Michigan's Education…

It has become increasingly difficult for school administrators and boards of education to obtain funds for meeting educational community needs and for overcoming obstacles to providing high quality education. This book provides the theoretical basis for developing specific strategies for resolving school bond issues and practical information on…

Since 1972, the passage of school bond issues in West Virginia has increased dramatically. The reason--state bonding for school construction. The author describes how this new state-local partnership has worked out for his state and sees it as a potential solution for other areas. (Author/MLF)

A random sample of 750 adults stratified on the basis of age, sex, and employment status was surveyed to determine attitudes toward the importance of a college education for high school graduates in the college district, college plans for their children, attitudes and knowledge about the college, and voting intentions on a future bond issue. On…

This monograph provides an introduction to the procedures of bonding. Although it was prepared for school systems within the State of New York, the information which it contains is of general applicability. The importance of obtaining the services of a national bonding attorney and a financial consultant is discussed. The guide outlines the…

Recommendations and suggestions, as well as statutory provisions and state board regulations, are presented regarding school building construction in Idaho. The material is organized into the following sections--(1) school building planning, (2) the school site, (3) construction planning and requirements, (4) secondary school planning, (5)…

For school systems, the Tax Reform Act of 1986 increased the relative cost of borrowing and put greater limits on investment opportunities. Offers tips to help school boards ask the right questions to take advantage of all possible opportunities. (MLF)

Reviews 1972 State and Federal court cases dealing with (1) acquisition, use and control of school property; and (2) construction of school buildings. (JF)