2026 BOND REFERENDUM
South Sioux City Community Schools
Strong schools have long been an important part of the South Sioux City and Dakota City communities. Following the 2025 bond election, the district took time to listen and learn from community feedback. Through surveys, listening sessions, stakeholder meetings, and continued facility planning, residents shared that they supported investing in local schools while encouraging a more focused, phased approach.
In response, the district revisited its facility needs, evaluated priorities, and refined the proposal based on what it heard from the community. The result is a reduced proposal focused on the district’s most pressing needs today, while allowing flexibility to address future needs over time.
On Tuesday, November 3, 2026, South Sioux City Community Schools voters will consider the 2026 school bond issue.
A MESSAGE TO OUR COMMUNITY
Our immediate needs:
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Improve school safety and security
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Address student capacity needs
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Replace aging facilities
Our proposal includes:
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New elementary school
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New intermediate school
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Security improvements at the district's remaining schools
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No tax levy increase
This website provides information about the proposal, the planning process, project details, and election information. As additional information becomes available, updates will be shared to help community members stay informed throughout the process.
"Our most immediate needs are clear: improving school safety, creating space for our growing student population, and replacing aging facilities."
-Dr. Rony Ortega, Superintendent
ENROLLMENT TRENDS
Capacity
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Covington, Cardinal, Dakota City and the Middle School are at capacity.
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Harney is projected to reach capacity by 2028.
Aging Facilities
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One school is more than 100 years old, while another is more than 60 years old.
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No major capital improvements in more than 25 years.
Safety & Security
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Opportunities exist to improve safety and security across the district.
New Intermediate School
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Serves fifth and sixth grade students in an age-appropriate learning environment.
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Provides dedicated space for fifth and sixth grade students, easing capacity pressures in all district buildings.
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Creates room for enrollment growth across the district.
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Supports a smoother transition as students progress to middle school.
New K–4 Elementary School
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Replaces two of the district’s oldest school facilities.
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Provides a modern learning environment designed for today’s educational needs.
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Includes dedicated spaces for instruction, activities and student services.
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Supports growth in western South Sioux City.
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Improves traffic flow, access and community amenities.
Districtwide Security Upgrades
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Security improvements at the district's remaining schools (Harney Elementary School, E.N. Swett Preschool, Dakota City Elementary School, Cardinal Elementary School, South Sioux City High School & Middle School.)
NO TAX
LEVY INCREASE
The 2026 school bond proposal would not increase the district’s current tax levy. The proposal would authorize South Sioux City Community Schools to issue up to $95 million in general obligation bonds to fund a new elementary school, a new intermediate school, districtwide security improvements, and the equipment and furnishings needed to support these projects.
Visit the FAQ page!
