USD 232 Breaks Ground on Bond 2026 Phase I

LENEXA, Kan. (September 18, 2026) – USD 232 students, Board of Education members, district staff, community members, and special guest Kansas Governor Laura Kelly gathered Friday morning at Cedar Trails Exploration Center to celebrate the start of construction on Phase 1 of Bond 2026.

Governor Kelly briefly addressed attendees, speaking about the important role of public education and the value of investing in students and their futures.

Eighteen students took part in the ceremonial groundbreaking — six early childhood students, six middle school students, and six high school students. Their participation reflects the purpose of the bond, which is to expand opportunity for students at every stage of their education.

Guests were also treated to a performance by five Mill Creek Middle School orchestra students and Director Elena Kolbrek De Leon. The district's orchestra program is in its second year as a fine arts opportunity available at all secondary schools, and the bond includes renovations at every secondary school to support it.

A Community-Supported Plan

In March 2026, after months of study and feedback from hundreds of stakeholders, the Board of Education asked voters to consider a $99.85 million bond proposal with no increase in the tax rate. Voters approved it because the bond addresses needs in three areas: safety and security, student opportunity, and growth and facilities.

What's Included in Phase I

• Adding classrooms for the district's early childhood program at Cedar Trails Exploration Center
• New space at Monticello Trails Middle School for special education, orchestra, and a multi-purpose room that will double as a storm shelter
• Security fencing at the district's elementary schools
• Secured door access points on additional exterior doors across the district

USD 232 is working with HTK Architects on design and Newkirk Novak Construction Partners on construction management for the Bond 2026 projects.

To learn more about the bond and follow project progress, visit usd232.org/bond2026. We’ll begin updating this page on a regular basis in late October and ongoing.

About USD 232

USD 232 welcomes more than 7,300 students each day, from early childhood through grade 12, at 14 campuses: seven elementary schools, three middle schools, two high schools, The Bridge (special education program), and the Cedar Trails Exploration Center. The district covers nearly 100 square miles in northwest Johnson County and draws from the community of De Soto and portions of Shawnee, Lenexa, Olathe, and unincorporated areas of the county.