McAlester Public Schools announced last week it is relaunching part of its "Investing in Our Herd" bond initiative.
The school board unanimously voted to allow the school to pursue another bond project. The school will ask voters for $4.7 million to build a STEM building with a safe room.
The safe room, if approved, will be large enough to house the entire student body as well as faculty.
The vote will take place Feb. 10, 2026, according to Superintendent Dr. Robert Steeber.
"Our vision for McAlester Public Schools is rooted in preparing students for the future while ensuring their safety each day," Steeber said. "This bond reflects our community's continued commitment to empowering our herd with world-class learning environments. We are excited to move forward and provide our students with the tools, spaces and protections they deserve."
The bond's funds will come by way of a property tax increase of $9 for every $100 spent. For residents who paid $100 in property taxes in 2025-2026, there will be a $9 increase in 2026-2027, averaging about 75 cents per month.
The STEM building was part of MPS's most recent bond initiative, which had a price tag of $41 million and included other items like an Agriculture barn and improvements to Hook Eales Stadium.
More information on the bond issue can be found online at mpsbuffs.org/mpsbond.