Frequently Asked Questions

  • Residents living within OSSD boundaries are currently being taxed at millage levied by the bond issue passed in 2008 to construct the new Ocean Springs High School. That bond expires in 2025. The new bonds will be issued as the district’s outstanding bonds are retired. The new bonds will be structured to keep the bond mills at the current level, assuming continued growth in the District’s assessed value.

  • YES! If you’re a registered voter and live inside the Ocean Springs School District - even if you’re located outside of OS city limits - you CAN vote in this election.

  • The process began in October 2023 with the establishment of the Strategic Planning Committee. District leaders met with teachers, staff, and members of the community to begin developing the 5-year plan for the district.

    The committee, with help from Bailey Education Group consultants, developed INSPIRE 2029, the district’s 20224-2029 strategic plan, which emphasizes world-class academic facilities.

  • With the INSPIRE 2029 strategic plan, an OSSD student will attend school in West Ocean Springs for grades K-4, 7, and 8; and East Ocean Springs for grades 5, 6, and 9-12.

    The three elementary schools are relatively new campuses by educational building standards. The Ocean Springs community feels a loyalty tie to the aesthetic provided by each of these “neighborhood schools.” Magnolia Park, Pecan Park, and Oak Park have plenty of room to grow without losing the intrinsic “feel” of sending your child to a sweet small school.

    Additionally, the ongoing costs to create an additional campus - new administration salaries, maintenance personnel - would all be added to the OSSD annual operating budget.

    The option of building a new elementary school was carefully considered but is not financially or logistically feasible at this time.

  • A vote for schools will benefit the entire Ocean Springs community, even for those without children in the school district. Here are several reasons to VOTE YES FOR OS ON 3/18:

    1. Property Values: Strong schools often lead to higher property values. Good school facilities and programs can attract families to the area, which can increase demand for homes and boost property prices.

    2. Economic Development: Quality education systems can attract businesses looking for a skilled workforce. A well-educated population can enhance the local economy, leading to job creation and stability.

    3. Community Investment: Schools are often community hubs that provide facilities and programs for everyone, including sports, arts, and adult education. Supporting schools can enhance community resources and foster a sense of community pride.

    4. Future Workforce: Investing in schools helps prepare future generations for the workforce. A strong educational foundation benefits everyone, as it leads to a more skilled and capable workforce.

    5. Social Responsibility: Supporting education is a way to contribute to the well-being of the community. Investing in schools helps ensure that all children have access to quality education, which can lead to reduced crime rates and improved public health outcomes.

    6. Long-Term Benefits: The effects of investing in education can be long-lasting. Improved school facilities and programs can have a positive impact for years to come, benefiting the entire community.

    7. Civic Engagement: Participating in local governance by voting on issues like school bonds helps shape the community. Engaging in these decisions is part of being an active and responsible citizen.

    By voting YES FOR OS ON 3/18, you contribute to the overall health and prosperity of the Ocean Springs community, which ultimately benefits ALL OF US, regardless of whether you have children in the OS school system.

  • In order to vote in this election, you must be registered to vote by FEBRUARY 18 (30 days prior to the 3/18/25 election date).

    TO REGISTER TO VOTE:

    Print out this registration form and mail to:

    RANDY CARNEY, CIRCUIT CLERK
    P.O. BOX 998
    PASCAGOULA, MS 39568

  • Spread the word and GET INVOLVED! Tell your friends, share our social media posts, sign up to receive our newsletters, make a donation to support our efforts, and most importantly VOTE YES FOR OS ON MARCH 18! Every vote counts!