Nonprofit Mississippi News The start of a new school term was just hours away and Jackson residents voted to give the Jackson Public Schools District millions of dollars to make much-needed infrastructure repairs. Jacksonians went to the polls Tuesday in order to decide whether they would renew $65million in bond debt. This was in addition to the $150 million bond referendum that was passed in 2006. Tuesday’s referendum received more than the 60% required to pass. Officials can now begin bidding for contracts for construction projects that are spread across the 56 schools. As of press time, final official figures were not available. Jeanne Hairston, the board chairwoman, said that it gave hope to students and showed them that adults were behind them 100%. “We are so happy and joyful at the wonderful outcome.” A small group of district officials, school board members and others gathered in a room at Hal & Mal’s Jackson restaurant erupted into cheers as the results were announced. The school board established a citizens oversight panel to monitor construction projects and provide input from the public. Hairston stated that the district will soon be looking for additional members. Don McCrackin, executive director facilities and operations, stated that the state will first prioritize fixing any repairs identified in an audit. The bond funds will be used to address problems identified by the Mississippi Department of Education in its investigative audit. Facility violations include leaky roofs and buildings not meeting the state’s standards for safe and sanitary schools. There are many projects on the list. Among other projects, HVAC units will be replaced in some schools, as well as gym floors being repaired and athletic facilities being renovated. Mississippi Today interviewed several JPS students before the vote. Many campaigned for the district and urged their cities to vote in favor. Khai Thompson, a Murrah highschool student, said that he felt great about the vote and was optimistic about the future. Students will be returning to school Wednesday. Jackson residents will continue to pay the same property taxes as they did before the city issued bond debt. Officials from the district said that repairs would begin as soon as possible.