Bonds to improve safety, security; update classrooms, capacity; modernize facilities.
QUESTION: Shall District maintain current estimated bond tax rate, issue bonds to improve safety, repair schools; expand classrooms, career/technical education?
SUMMARY: This measure is expected to maintain current estimated Lake Oswego School District bond levy rate and authorizes $245 million in principal amount of bonds to finance capital costs, including:
Safe, Secure Schools:
Update fire alarm systems
Standardize secure classroom doors
Install hardened glass
Expand security camera coverage
Upgrade emergency communication systems
Improve seismic structural resilience
Replace Two Oldest Schools
Replace Forest Hills and Lake Grove Elementary Schools. Built in 1940s, plumbing is embedded in concrete, and foundations cannot support seismic strengthening.
Improve Aging Facilities
Upgrade roofs, windows, HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems
Update recreation facilities
Acquire furnishings, equipment, technology
Modern Learning Environments
Expand Science Technology Education Math (STEM), Career and Technical Education (CTE) spaces at both high schools
Purchase property, remodel for Community Transition Program
Add classrooms to meet demand at Palisades
Requires community oversight, regular audits
Bonds may be issued in multiple series, each maturing within 26 years. Estimated not to increase bond rate above $2.90 per $1,000 assessed value. Actual levy rates may differ due to interest rates and property value changes.
EXPLANATORY STATEMENT: Lake Oswego School District (LOSD) serves approximately 6,800 students across 11 schools and is consistently recognized among Oregon’s top-performing K-12 education systems, according to Niche.
COMMUNITY INVESTMENT IN SCHOOLS
This bond measure represents the final phase of a three-part initiative to build safe, modern, and resilient schools in Lake Oswego.
Projected to Maintain Current Tax Rate
If approved, the $245 million bond is projected to maintain LOSD’s current estimated bond tax rate of $2.90 per $1,000 of assessed property value. No increase in the bond tax rate is anticipated.
ADDRESS CURRENT NEEDS
- Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Several schools would receive safety improvements, including new fire alarm systems, secure classroom doors, expanded security camera coverage, emergency communication upgrades, and hardened glass window installations.
- Aging Infrastructure
Many school buildings are several decades old and rely on outdated systems. Roofs, windows, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems would be repaired or replaced to support healthy, safe, and efficient operations.
- Oldest Schools Replacements
Forest Hills and Lake Grove Elementary Schools, built in the 1940s, have obsolete systems and deteriorating infrastructure, including plumbing embedded in concrete and foundations that cannot be seismically upgraded. Replacements would be less costly than major repairs.
- Learning Space Capacity
Lakeridge and Lake Oswego High Schools would receive expanded and upgraded classrooms for Science, Technology. Engineering, and Math (STEM) and Career and Technical Education (CTE). Palisades Elementary would receive additional classrooms to support growing enrollment. Community Transition Program, which supports students with developmental delays preparing for independent living, would receive a dedicated facility.
2025 BOND REQUEST
Developed in collaboration with community representatives, this bond proposal is designed to address current needs while maintaining LOSD’s current estimated bond tax rate.
If passed, the bond would fund:
Health, Safety, and Security Improvements
- Update fire alarm systems
- Install secure classroom doors and hardened glass windows
- Expand security camera coverage
- Upgrade emergency communication systems
- Add seismic reinforcements to Level 4 “Immediate Occupancy” standards
Facility Preservation and Upgrades
- Improve roof, window, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems
- Restore physical activity facilities
- Replace deficient furnishings, equipment, and technology
Oldest Elementary Schools Replacement
- Rebuild Forest Hills and Lake Grove Elementary Schools at current sites
Learning Space Expansions
- Add STEM/ CTE classrooms at both high schools
- Purchase and remodel a facility for Community Transition Program
- Add classrooms at Palisades Elementary
OVERSIGHT AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Bond funds may only be used for voter-approved projects. Oversight includes:
- A citizen-led Bond Accountability Committee
- Regular audits and quarterly expenditure reports
- Monitoring by the Lake Oswego School Board
- Compliance with bond program objectives and state law
COSTS
Bonds may be issued in series, each maturing within 26 years. While the LOSD’s total bond tax rate is estimated to remain at $2.90 per $1,000 of assessed value, actual rates may vary based on interest rates and assessed property values.
Learn more at losdschools.org/bond2025.
Submitted by:
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent
Lake Oswego School District No. 7J