Board Research & Study
Long before any decision was made, the WLCSC Board of Trustees undertook a rigorous, year-long review of the district's financial standing. That review was grounded in state legislation, internal assessment, and independent research — ensuring every step was deliberate and data-driven.
Senate Enrolled Act 1 (SEA 1)
Indiana's SEA 1 restructured how school corporations may levy property taxes, immediately reducing WLCSC's operating flexibility. Board members began analyzing the law's direct impact on district revenue within weeks of its passage.
Board of Trustees' Assessment
Throughout 2025, the Board convened repeated study sessions, reviewing five-year financial projections, staffing models, and program impacts to determine what a referendum must accomplish to sustain student outcomes.
Policy Analytics Engagement
The district engaged Policy Analytics, an independent research firm, to conduct financial modeling and community sentiment research — grounding every Board decision in data rather than assumption.
Community Engagement
Community engagement, as WLCSC defines it, is an intentional, two-way process of dialogue between the district and the residents it serves — one that shares information openly and genuinely listens before decisions are finalized.
The purpose of this engagement was not to sell a predetermined outcome, but to test assumptions, surface concerns, and ensure that any referendum reflected what the community actually needed and could support.
Build shared understanding of the district's financial reality and the impact of SEA 1.
Gather authentic community input before any referendum decision was finalized.
Ensure transparency by sharing data, timelines, and next steps openly.
Strengthen long-term trust between the district and the families and residents it serves.
Community Opinion Survey
Policy Analytics conducted an independent community-wide survey to measure trust, understanding, and support ahead of the referendum decision. The results confirmed strong community confidence in the district — and showed that support grows further once residents understand the facts.
"When residents understood the direct impact of SEA 1 on classroom funding, support for the referendum increased significantly — underscoring the importance of clear, factual communication."
— Policy Analytics Community Survey Report
Community Sounding Board
To hear directly from the people who know West Lafayette best, the district convened a Community Sounding Board — a series of small-group sessions with local business, faith, civic, and neighborhood leaders. Each meeting shared district data and financial context, then opened the floor for direct questions and candid feedback that helped refine the referendum plan.
Kickoff & Financial Overview
Leaders reviewed the district's revenue loss under SEA 1, five-year financial projections, and what a level of stable funding requires.
Program Impact & Community Questions
Discussion focused on what a "no" vote would mean for class sizes, staffing, and academic and music programs, with an open Q&A.
Referendum Framework & Next Steps
The district presented the proposed referendum framework informed by survey results and prior sessions, and outlined the path to the November 2026 ballot.