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Believe in Widefield

We Need You In 2025

Widefield School District 3 (WSD3) is in need of funding to make critical improvements in our schools and to support staff and programs. We are moving forward with a bond and mill levy override in November 2025. 
 

It's just common sense to:

  • Repair Older Facilities

    • Replace failing school building heating and cooling systems, some of which are over 50 years old, with new systems with modern temperature control and energy efficiency that saves operating money

    • Remove asbestos which is critical for children’s safety

    • Replace and repair leaking roofs and outdated electrical wiring
       

  • Keep Students and Staff Safe:

    • WSD3 now employs 20 armed security personnel to guard buildings. But because of state budget cuts, new money from passing the ballot issues is needed to keep this force from being reduced
       

  • Improve Teacher & Staff Pay:
    • The Mill Levy increase is specifically aimed at boosting teacher and support staff salaries. This measure is seen as a vital step in attracting and retaining high-quality educators and support staff in the district.
       
  • Meet the increasing demand for career technical skills
Girl hanging on a yellow bar on the playground at Pinello Elementary
Elementary student hoola hooping during P.E. at Pinello Elementary

Critical Needs

Past Asks

BOND/MLO 2017

In 2017, voters approved a bond and mill levy override to build Grand Mountain School, update high school auditoriums, fund projects for each school, and upgrade and update school buildings, attract and retain quality staff, and support district programs. 

BOND 1996

In 1996, the district was bursting at the seams with new growth. Voters supported the district's need for a new high school, Mesa Ridge High School. The new school helped relieve facility and classroom issues creating a more comfortable and positive learning environment for students. 

MILL LEVY 2002

 In 2002, a $3.95 million mill levy was passed to attract and retain quality teachers and staff, and to create and expand innovative programs for students.

Promises Made, Promises Kept

  • In 2017-2018, we asked taxpayers for $9.25 a month (per $100,000 of home value) for the $49.5 million bond
     

  • In 2019, the cost lowered to $8.67

  • In 2020, the cost lowered to $6.46

  • In 2021, the cost lowered to $6.34

  • In 2022, the cost lowered to $4.70

  • In 2023, the cost lowered to $3.32

More Savings

  • BEST (Building Excellent Schools Today) grants from the state to support capital projects at our school buildings
     

  • Refinanced a portion of 2017 bond issue to save taxpayers $2 million
     

  • Reallocated funds for safety and security: $2 million a year
     

  • Provided extra resources for student mental health and wellness (post pandemic)
     

  • Used remaining 2017 bond funds and capital reserves to renovate and expand Webster Elementary
     

  • Additional building support with math coaches
     

  • Sustained innovative programs and opportunities for students

 

Widefield Information Network (WIN)

The Widefield Information Network (WIN) is a collaborative effort involving parents, students, staff, and community members who are passionate about the future of our schools.

We're working together to:

  • Highlight Critical Needs: Identify and communicate the urgent needs of our district, including necessary facility repairs and upgrades.
  • Promote Fiscal Responsibility: Advocate for responsible financial management and ensure our tax dollars are used effectively.
  • Recruit and Retain Quality Educators: Support efforts to attract and retain highly qualified teachers and staff who inspire student success and improve student achievement.
  • Prepare for the Future: Lead the campaign for a bond and mill levy override in November 2025, which will provide essential funding to address our district's long-term needs.

Join WIN:

  • Email Sam Briggs at briggss@wsd3.org or call719-391-3019

Community Meetings

Facility Audit & Critical Needs

  • Feb. 12, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.
  • North Preschool - 209 Leta Drive

Superintendent Aaron Hoffman will outline the facilities audit and district priorities for our schools, 

 

FAQs