The Dubuque Community School District faces a growing budget shortfall driven by declining enrollment and rising costs. To address it, officials are advancing a plan to expand Eleanor Roosevelt Middle School, close Jefferson Middle School, and seek voter approval for a higher property tax levy. The changes aim to modernize facilities, cut long-term expenses, and protect core programs without a full new school build.

Background and Financial Pressures

Like many Midwest districts, Dubuque has seen enrollment drop, reducing state funding while inflation and maintenance costs climb. Reserves are projected to shrink sharply by 2028-29, falling below safe levels. A $70 million bond for a new middle school failed in November 2025, prompting a more targeted approach using existing funds and a narrower tax ask.

Key Elements of the Plan

Roosevelt Middle School Expansion

The district plans a $20–25 million addition and renovation at Roosevelt, funded entirely by the statewide 1-cent sales tax (SAVE dollars). The project adds classrooms, updates administration areas, improves parking and safety features, and increases capacity to serve most middle school students. A public hearing on the related bonds is set for May 11, 2026.

Jefferson Middle School Closure

Jefferson—the district’s oldest and smallest middle school—would close at the end of the 2027-28 school year. Students and staff would move primarily to the expanded Roosevelt or to Washington Middle School. The decision aligns with earlier planning due to Jefferson’s high maintenance needs and low enrollment.

Property Tax Levy Increase

Voters will decide in a fall 2026 special election on renewing and doubling the Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL). The current rate of $0.67 per $1,000 of assessed value would rise to $1.34, generating about $6 million annually for 10 years. Funds would support district-wide upgrades such as air conditioning and secure entrances. The levy requires only a simple majority to pass.

Expected Benefits

Consolidating to two middle schools is projected to save roughly $2 million per year in operating costs. The Roosevelt project modernizes learning spaces without new property taxes, while the PPEL accelerates essential safety and comfort improvements. Superintendent Amy Hawkins described the plan as a forward-looking step to avoid repeated short-term cuts that could enlarge classes or reduce programs.

Impacts and Considerations

Students and Families

Jefferson students will change schools, which may affect routines, friendships, and transportation. District leaders say they will work to ease the transition, but details on busing, athletics, and support services are still being finalized. Roosevelt’s added capacity is designed to prevent overcrowding once construction finishes.

Staff and Operations

No immediate layoffs are planned, though some grade-level adjustments could occur later.

Taxpayers

The PPEL increase would roughly double this specific levy for property owners. For a typical home, the annual cost rise would be noticeable but targeted. Sales-tax funding for Roosevelt spreads costs more broadly across the state.

Uncertainties

If the tax measure fails, the district may need deeper spending cuts or further consolidations. Ongoing enrollment declines and construction timelines remain variables. A 40-member community task force is exploring additional long-term options.

Next Steps and Community Role

Public input is central. Families received initial details in mid-March 2026, and more forums are planned. Board approval is still required for the closure and election.

Key dates:

•  May 11, 2026: SAVE bonds public hearing

•  Fall 2026: PPEL election

•  End of 2027-28: Jefferson closure and Roosevelt expansion target

Broader Context

The proposal reflects a common challenge for mid-sized districts: delivering quality education amid tighter budgets. By combining sales-tax construction with a focused levy, Dubuque seeks a balanced path after the failed bond. Whether the community supports the plan will determine if these changes deliver stability or require further adjustments. Residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming discussions to shape outcomes for local students.

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