On April 4, 2023, 77.67% of Springfield voters approved a request to issue general obligation bonds in the amount of $220 million to fund critical school improvements prioritized by a citizen task force that will impact every school in the district. This no-tax rate increase to the debt service levy will fund multiple high-priority projects that include safety and security upgrades at all school facilities, new construction for Pipkin and Reed middle schools, renovation of Pershing School, and construction of storm shelters at Cowden, Holland, Mann, Pittman, Watkins, and Wilder elementaries.  Additionally, an expansion to Field Elementary will be funded to house incoming students when Pershing K-8 becomes a middle school only.