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Public school districts in Arizona rely on a combination of state funding and local voter-approved measures to support their schools. At times, districts ask their community to consider funding initiatives that help maintain school operations or invest in facilities and infrastructure. Two of the most common funding measures that require voter approval are Maintenance & Operations overrides and bonds. The information below explains how each of these funding tools supports our schools and students.
What is a Maintenance & Operations (M&O) Override?
Salaries, Benefits, Utilities, Supplies, and Services
A Maintenance and Operations (M&O) override is a voter-approved funding measure that allows a school district to receive additional local funding above the budget limit set by the state. These funds help support the daily operation of schools and maintain programs and services that may not be fully funded through state funding alone.
M&O override funding is commonly used for teacher and staff salaries and benefits, classroom programs, student services, utilities, supplies, and other operational costs that support teaching and learning.
Overrides are approved by voters for a period of seven years, with the funding gradually phasing down in the final years if the override is not renewed.
What is a Bond?
Buildings and Vehicles
School districts may ask voters to approve bond funding for capital improvements and long-term investments in school facilities. Bond funds may be used to acquire or lease school sites, construct or renovate school buildings, furnish classrooms, purchase equipment and technology, improve school grounds, and purchase district vehicles.
Bond funds may only be used for the specific projects and categories outlined in the voter-approved bond program.
2026 Blue Ribbon Citizens Committee
At its October 15, 2025, meeting, the GUHSD Governing Board approved the formation of a Blue Ribbon Citizens Committee to study the district’s M&O budget and evaluate whether there may be a need to ask voters to renew the override in the future. The committee held its initial meeting on March 10 and is continuing its work by seeking input from the community.
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Maintenance & Operations Override Community Meetings
March 2026 – Maintenance and Operations (M&O) override funding is available to school districts across Arizona and provides additional resources to support the daily operation of schools.
At its October 15, 2025, meeting, the Glendale Union High School District Governing Board approved the formation of a Blue Ribbon Citizens Committee to study the district’s budget and evaluate the need for a potential continuation of the M&O override. The committee was authorized by the Governing Board to review information about the district’s Maintenance and Operations budget and determine whether there is a need to seek voter approval to continue this funding.
The Blue Ribbon Citizens Committee held its initial meeting on March 10 to begin evaluating the district’s Maintenance and Operations budget. Ultimately, the committee will make a recommendation to the Governing Board on whether the district should call for a Maintenance and Operations override renewal election in November 2026.
As part of this process, GUHSD will host two public community meetings to provide an overview of the district’s budget and offer an opportunity for community members to share their perspectives.
All parents, students, staff, and community members are encouraged to attend and participate in this important discussion.
Community Meeting Dates
Tuesday, March 24, 6:00 p.m.
Washington High School – Media Center
2217 W. Glendale Avenue
Phoenix, ArizonaThursday, March 26, 6:00 p.m.
Apollo High School – Big Hawk Room
8045 N. 47th Avenue
Glendale, ArizonaWhile you may attend either meeting, community members are welcome at both. Your participation helps ensure the district hears a wide range of perspectives as decisions are considered.
If you have questions, contact the Community Relations Department at 623-435-6001 or prdept@guhsdaz.org
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