The South Tama County Community School District faced challenges with its 105-year-old middle school building, which was outdated, inaccessible, and too small for current needs. Multiple bond referendums have failed due to divided community opinions.
INVISION led a transparent process involving a community task force to educate taxpayers and gather feedback. The approach focused on listening to concerns, exploring various options, and ensuring community involvement.
As a result, the district secured an 83% approval rating for a bond referendum. The plan involved transforming an abandoned State of Iowa Juvenile Home in Toledo into a modern learning environment, addressing both educational needs and economic relief for the community impacted by COVID-19 and the 2020 derecho.