Middlefork School Improvements: Continuing Our Legacy of Excellence

PROPOSED 2026 BOND REFERENDUM 

Why is District 29 considering a bond referendum in March 2026? 

Sunset Ridge School District 29 is evaluating a bond referendum for the March 17, 2026  ballot to address pressing facility needs at Middlefork School (grades K-3). At 65 years old,  the facility requires substantial reinvestment to remain safe, functional, and aligned with  modern educational standards. A referendum would help finance a partial rebuild and  comprehensive renovation of the school. 

Bond measures are long-term financing tools, similar to a mortgage, that allow school  districts to fund large-scale facility improvements such as renovations, system upgrades,  and new construction. 

What are the most pressing facility challenges at Middlefork School? 

• Safety and Security: While a secure entrance and video surveillance exist, further  reinforcements are needed, including upgraded access points, reinforced doors and  glass, a fully enclosed playground, enhanced communication systems, and life safety measures such as a fire suppression system and a storm shelter. 

• Aging Infrastructure: Despite ongoing maintenance, heating, roofing, and other  essential systems are outdated, inefficient, and increasingly costly to maintain. 

• Accessibility Deficiencies: Many restrooms and the playground do not meet  Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. 

• Capacity Constraints and Evolving Program Demands: Enrollment and expanding  programming needs have grown beyond the building’s original design, forcing  instruction into hallways, vestibules, carts, and non-classroom spaces. In recent  years, Middlefork started providing a broader range of services to meet a variety of  student needs. These spaces require specialized instructional areas the current  facility lacks.  

How were these needs identified and prioritized? 

After completing a state-mandated 10-year Health Life Safety Survey in 2017, the District  maintained a prioritized list of repairs. In October 2023, following a pandemic-related  pause, the District resumed planning with a comprehensive facility assessment. A Capital  Improvement Committee—comprised of Board members, District staff, and community representatives—led a 20-month review process evaluating infrastructure,  capacity, and learning environments, while engaging staff and community input.

What is the proposed solution? 

A partial rebuild and comprehensive renovation of Middlefork School, balancing  modernization, fiscal responsibility, and continuity of instruction. 

Were alternative solutions considered? 

Yes. Options included:  

• Targeted renovations and small additions: Insufficient to resolve infrastructure,  space, and safety challenges. 

• Construction of a new school: More costly, requiring temporary modular  classrooms at Sunset Ridge School and significant logistical disruption. 

Why recommend a partial rebuild and renovation? 

This option best addresses identified needs while balancing cost, minimizing disruption,  ensuring safety during construction, avoiding modular classrooms, and accounting for site  and floodplain constraints. 

What types of improvements would be made? 

• Preservation of the gymnasium and historic multipurpose room/cafeteria 

• Replacement of outdated academic wing with modern, flexible classrooms • Phased construction to avoid modular classrooms 

• A two-story layout organized by grade-level clusters 

• Enhanced safety systems: reinforced materials, secure entry points, and interior  movement barriers 

• Fire suppression system and integrated storm shelter 

• Energy-efficient HVAC, electrical, plumbing, roofing, and lighting systems 

• 23 purpose-designed classrooms (16 core, 4 specials, 2 special education, and 1  preschool) 

• ADA-compliant restrooms and accessible indoor and outdoor pathways 

• Enclosed, accessible playground safely distanced from traffic 

• Optimized building exterior for energy efficiency and durability 

How would the partially rebuilt and renovated Middlefork compare to Sunset Ridge  School? 

While not a complete rebuild, the renovation aims to achieve the same high standards of  safety, efficiency, and instructional quality realized at Sunset Ridge. The same architectural  firm, Wight & Company, is guiding the design.

What would happen with the existing playground during construction? 

The exiting playground would be demolished once construction starts. The District would  work with the Park District to identify spaces available for adequate outdoor time. 

What is the anticipated construction timeline? 

If approved in March 2026, construction could begin in April 2027 and conclude by August  2029. 

Why is it the right time to consider a referendum? 

Key building systems are at their end of life, enrollment continues to grow, and instructional  space is inadequate. Acting now allows the District to address critical infrastructure,  improve safety and security, create exceptional learning environments, and provide for a  much more energy-efficient facility, saving taxpayer dollars.

What benefits are anticipated from the project? 

• Creating a healthier, safer, and more secure school 

• Eliminating learning in makeshift spaces 

• Extending the useful life of existing facilities 

• Reducing costly and disruptive emergency repairs 

• Enhancing ADA accessibility 

• Maintaining small class sizes, protecting our high-performing school 

• Improving energy efficiency, saving taxpayer dollars 

• Strengthening our ability to attract and retain exceptional teachers 

• Protecting property values 

How would improvements impact student learning? 

Modern classrooms and small-group spaces would support differentiated instruction for  all learners. Grade-level clusters would foster collaboration, while improved facilities  would sustain low student-to-teacher ratios, protecting educational quality. 

How would residents without school-aged children benefit? 

Strong public schools protect property values, attract new families, and provide  community spaces for programs and events. Schools are central to community pride and  long-term vitality.

What is the size of the proposed bond referendum? 

A $30 million bond measure is being considered.

What is the total cost, and how will it be financed? 

The project is estimated at $40 million. At least $10 million (25%) would be funded from  existing District reserves, reducing borrowing needs. 

Would waiting increase costs? 

Yes. Inflation and deferred maintenance would likely increase overall expenses. 

Has the District demonstrated fiscal responsibility? 

Yes. District 29 has a strong record of fiscal responsibility, consistently managing its budget  to sustain high-quality programs and facilities while safeguarding taxpayer interests.  Notably, Sunset Ridge School was built without a referendum, funded through operating  surpluses and capital lease certificates. The District’s Finance/Facility Committee plays a  key role in reviewing and overseeing financial decisions. As a result of its prudent financial  practices, the District has consistently earned Financial Recognition status—the highest  rating awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education. 

What is the estimated tax impact? 

For a 20-year, $30 million bond issuance: 

A tax calculator is available at sunsetridge29.org/proposal.

How can residents provide input? 

A community survey will be distributed to all registered voter households this fall. Public  information sessions will also be held at Middlefork School (405 Wagner Rd., Northfield) in  the multipurpose room/cafeteria. The first three meetings are: 

• Tuesday, October 14, 5:30–6:30 pm 

• Thursday, October 16, 5:30–6:30 pm 

• Saturday, October 25, 9:00–10:00 am 

When will the Board of Education decide on the referendum? 

The Board will make a final decision in December 2025 after reviewing community input.

How would project updates be communicated? 

If approved, the District would share progress on construction and finances via Board  meetings, public forums, and the District website. 

How would construction be managed while school is in session? 

A phased approach would allow portions of the building to remain operational while new  areas are completed, ensuring safety and continuity of instruction. 

Where can residents direct additional questions?

Contact Superintendent Dr. Ed Stange at (847) 881-9456 or stangee@srd29.org.