Superintendent Dr. Steven Bebee reflected on his 30-year career in education, the district’s achievements and the challenges it faces after voters rejected a critical bond measure in November.
As the district plans for future growth and another possible bond proposal, Bebee outlined efforts to address voter concerns. The funding shortfall has put significant pressure on the district as it prepares for continued growth.
“The state has allocated $90 million for a new school, but the actual cost is closer to $175 to $200 million. Without the bond, we simply can’t move forward,” Bebee said.
What’s next
To address the challenges, Bebee and his team plan to improve voter outreach, he said.
“We need to meet people where they are,” he offered, referencing plans to livestream community meetings and use social media to share information about school funding and district needs.
Additionally, Bebee acknowledged consequences from the failed bond could impact the community. Overcrowded classrooms, deferred maintenance and higher fees for parents may become reality.
“Sometimes it takes a little pain for people to see the need for change,” he said, noting that a previous override failure led to significant service cuts before voters approved the measure in a subsequent election.
Despite funding challenges, Bebee highlighted the district’s successes.
“We’re proud of our 90% graduation rate and robust Career and Technical Education programs,” he said. With more CTE offerings per capita than many larger districts, the programs prepare students for careers in various industries.
Looking ahead
Bebee said he remains optimistic about the district’s future and its ability to secure funding for necessary improvements.
“We’ve been transparent and kept our promises,” he said. “Our schools are thriving, and we want to ensure that continues for our students and the community.”
Bebee encouraged residents to engage with the district and learn more about its efforts.
“We’re here to provide the best for our kids and to support the community,” he said, emphasizing the importance of continued support for students and staff.
A lifetime of education
Bebee’s 31-year educational career spans teaching, leadership and mentorship.
“I taught for eight years before becoming an assistant principal, then a principal, and I’ve been a superintendent for seven years now,” he shared.
A Prescott native and graduate of Prescott High School, Bebee earned his doctoral degree from Grand Canyon University and also teaches graduate-level courses in educational leadership.
“It’s a way to pay it forward to the next generation of school leaders,” he said.
Why Buckeye?
Bebee joined the Buckeye district four years ago after researching its schools and the community.
“What stood out to me was the small-town high school feel,” he said. “All three of our schools have strong community ties, and I’ve met so many families with multiple generations of Buckeye graduates. That’s special.”
The bond measure and its impact
The district’s $80 million bond proposal would have funded upgrades to existing schools and construction of a new high school to address overcrowding. However, it failed to pass. Bebee cited several factors, including voter demographics and confusion over the bond’s tax implications.
“A large portion of our voters are over 55, and many don’t have children in school,” he explained. “Even though we showed that the bond wouldn’t increase taxes, the ballot language can be misleading.”
This article first appeared in the winter edition of InBuckeye Magazine.
Winter (January) 2025 InBuckeye Magazine
