SPI Insights

Oklahoma – Norman Public Schools (NPS) has received a passing vote from residents on its $354 million bond issue. Norman High School will expand its stadium at a cost of $24 million. The expansion includes stadium upgrades, track and turf improvements and additional lighting. Updates will also occur at Harve Collins Stadium.

Rendering of the Oklahoma Aviation Academy. Photo courtesy of Norman Public Schools.

The bond proposal features a stand-alone facility for the Oklahoma Aviation Academy. Between property and construction costs, the academy would total more than $32.7 million and would be located at the Max Westheimer Airport. The bond also includes a new all-schools fine arts performance venue at a cost of $18.4 million. A new transportation building for NPS, an animal barn for the district’s Future Farmers of America program and the creation of multi-use spaces in district high schools for esports and other activities also are in the bond proposal.

Approximately $90 million in improvements will take place at 17 NPS elementary schools and four middle schools. These improvements include roof repairs, classroom additions and parking lot updates.

Part of the funding would be dedicated to increased security for schools. This includes continued investment in perimeter security, lighting, locks, emergency access and other security upgrades. The district is also planning to spend approximately $80 million on new technology equipment, related software subscriptions and textbooks.