Perry County School District 32 can move forward with plans to build a new home for Perryville High School after voters approved the passage of Proposition K.I.D.S. during Tuesday’s Primary Election.
Prop K.I.D.S. (Keep Improving District Schools) received 3,035 Yes votes (57.34%) compared with 2,258 No votes (42.66%).
"To every voter, parent, staff member, and community partner who engaged in this process, asked questions, and showed up at the polls — thank you,” said Superintendent Dr. Fara Jones. “We take the trust you have placed in us very seriously, and we are committed to executing these plans with complete transparency, fiscal responsibility, and an unwavering focus on our kids."
Proposition K.I.D.S. will allow the District to increase its operating levy by $0.2215 per $100 of assessed valuation in order to borrow $35 million to fund the PHS construction project. The District will raise its operating levy to $3.4979 from 2026 through 2045, and the ceiling will be reduced by an estimated $.5440 for tax year 2046 and thereafter.
The District 32 Board of Education established a $60 million budget for a construction project to build a new facility for PHS, which was destroyed by a tornado in March 2025. Alongside the $35 million from Prop K.I.D.S., the District plans to fund the remaining $25 million through contributions from insurance, District funds, and FEMA reimbursements.
Architects are finalizing designs to meet the proposed budget, but are planning a roughly 147,500 square-foot facility that would include 34 classroom/instructional spaces, a gymnasium, a library, and a multipurpose center.
Demolition is currently underway to clear what remains of Perryville High School. Site preparations will begin for the new facility once demolition is complete. The complete PHS project is projected to be completed prior to the start of the Spring 2029 semester.
District 32 will continue to document the PHS recovery process on its website (see below).