Dearborn voters approve $1.5 billion school bond
The 68% approval rate clears funding for six new buildings and renovations across a district where many structures are nearing 100 years old.
By Larissa Shah ·
Dearborn residents voted Tuesday to authorize a $1.5 billion bond for the local school district. The measure passed with 68% of the vote against 32% opposition. City officials structured the debt so that the total tax burden on homeowners remains flat.
The funds will pay for six new school buildings and extensive upgrades to existing facilities. Dearborn Public Schools operates with an average building age of 70 years. Approximately one-third of the district's structures are at or near 100 years old. The bond will also cover security improvements and air conditioning repairs.
Superintendent Mike Esseily described the approval as a community-wide decision. "This bond doesn't belong to one individual or one board. This bond belongs to our community," Esseily said.
Henry Ford Elementary Principal Mariam Farhat cited recent classroom conditions to explain the need for the project. She noted that warmer weather last week caused some rooms to overheat, leading to lethargic students and distracted teachers. "We know it's going to be a long process, but in the end it's definitely going to be worth it for our students and teachers," Farhat said.
Mayor Abdullah Hammoud emphasized the long-term nature of the investment. He acknowledged that current high school seniors might not see the direct benefits of the new construction. "Maybe your child is a junior or senior and might not be benefiting from this investment, but their children most certainly will," Hammoud said.
District leaders plan to execute the plan in four phases over a 20-year period. Phase one includes the construction of three new schools: a new Salina Intermediate, a new Lowrey, and a combined Nowlin and Smith building. The latter will serve pre-K through 8th graders and include a special education wing. Construction is scheduled to begin as early as spring or summer 2027.
The school board will form a community oversight committee to involve residents in the process. Officials are currently finalizing the details for public participation.
