Dubuque, Iowa, September 7, 2025
News Summary
The Dubuque Community School District is weighing the potential closure of Jefferson Middle School due to financial issues and a sharp decline in enrollment. A vote next week will determine whether to include a $70 million bond on the November ballot, aimed at funding a new middle school. If the bond is approved, Jefferson Middle School may close even sooner as part of a consolidation plan, which the district argues could save millions annually. Community feedback sessions will also be organized to discuss the proposed changes.
Dubuque, Iowa – The Dubuque Community School District is considering the potential closure of Jefferson Middle School amid ongoing financial challenges and declining enrollment. The school board is scheduled to vote next week on whether to place a $70 million general obligation bond on the November 4 election ballot, which, if approved by at least 60% of voters, will help fund a new $121.9 million middle school at the site of Washington Middle School.
If the bond passes, it will be combined with $51.9 million borrowed from the district’s 1-cent sales tax fund (SAVE fund), leading to the closure of Jefferson Middle School as the district moves forward with plans to consolidate middle school education. The new middle school will serve as a feeder school alongside Eleanor Roosevelt Middle School. However, board discussions have indicated that Jefferson will likely close regardless of the bond’s approval, due to mounting financial and facility concerns.
Superintendent Amy Hawkins noted that Jefferson’s enrollment has been declining, emphasizing that the school’s future is uncertain as current figures show the enrollment at Jefferson Middle School has decreased approximately 30% since 2020. Currently, Jefferson serves only 374 students, compared to 1,146 students at Roosevelt Middle School and 603 students at Washington Middle School.
The financial implications of keeping Jefferson open are significant. The cost to educate each student at Jefferson is nearly $20,000, which is higher than the cost of $15,000 per pupil at Roosevelt and Washington. Closing Jefferson and consolidating middle school services could save the district between $1.9 million and $2.5 million annually. Board Member Anderson Sainci highlighted the financial losses that necessitate the closure, stating that the board cannot overlook continuing budget deficits.
The timeline for the closure of Jefferson Middle School may not be immediate, as the district faces challenges with the aging building and the costs associated with keeping it operational. The district is currently exploring potential new middle school boundary lines to better align the feeder system with the high schools.
This proposed bond comes after past attempts at securing funding, including a failed $150 million bond referendum in 2023 intended for various projects such as a new middle school. To assist residents in understanding the potential financial impact of the bond, a tool has been made available to calculate property tax implications, estimated to raise taxes by approximately $1 per $1,000 of taxable value.
As the district navigates these changes, it is also facing challenges with state funding that has not kept pace with inflation and ongoing enrollment declines. The community is encouraged to participate in providing feedback on the proposed changes, with future informational sessions planned to discuss the district’s efforts to maintain high-quality education while enhancing operational efficiencies.
FAQ
What is the Dubuque Community School District planning to do with Jefferson Middle School?
The district is considering closing Jefferson Middle School due to financial challenges and declining enrollment.
Why is Jefferson Middle School being considered for closure?
Jefferson has seen a significant drop in enrollment, and the cost of educating students there is higher than at other middle schools in the district. Consolidating middle schools could save the district millions annually.
When will the decision be made regarding the bond and the school closure?
The school board will vote on placing a $70 million bond on the November 4 election ballot next week.
What is the potential tax impact of the proposed bond?
The bond could increase property taxes by approximately $1 per $1,000 of taxable value.
How can community members provide feedback on these changes?
Community members are encouraged to participate in informational sessions scheduled to discuss the proposed changes and provide their input.
Key Features of Proposed Changes
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Bond Proposal | $70 million general obligation bond to fund educational infrastructure. |
| School Closure | Jefferson Middle School to close regardless of bond approval. |
| New Construction | Planned $121.9 million middle school at Washington Middle School site. |
| Projected Savings | Consolidation could save $1.9 to $2.5 million annually. |
| Tax Impact | Projected increase of about $1 per $1,000 of assessed property value. |
| Enrollment Figures | Jefferson: 374, Roosevelt: 1,146, Washington: 603. |
| Feedback Sessions | Community invited to provide input on changes and bond proposal. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- KCRG: Middle School Closure Among Possible Recommendations
- Wikipedia: Dubuque, Iowa
- CBS2 Iowa: Dubuque Community School District Bond Referendum
- Google Search: Dubuque Community School District
- KWWL: Dubuque School District Considers Middle School Consolidation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dubuque
- KCRG: Closing Dubuque Middle School Could Save District
- Google News: Dubuque Middle School Closure
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