Factors influencing the successful passage of a school bond referendum as identified by New Jersey school superintendents

The passage of a school bond can determine the direction of a district for many years to come (Faltys, 2006). Upkeep of older facilities and the building of new facilities can have an impact on instruction, teacher job satisfaction, student achievement, and perceptions toward the district (Moore, 2003). Despite the fact there is often state money to assist with building and renovation projects, organizing and passing a referendum can prove to be a daunting task (Nagardeolekar & Merritt, 2006).;This study was guided by the following research questions: (1) According to the perceptions of school superintendents, what role did Credibility/Trust have in passing the school bond referendum? (2) According to the perceptions of school superintendents, what role did the Involvement of Stakeholders have in passing the school bond referendum? (3) According to the perceptions of school superintendents, what role did Campaign Organization have in passing the school bond referendum? (4) According to the perceptions of school superintendents, what role did Financial Factors have in passing the school bond referendum? (5) According to the perceptions of school superintendents, what role did Other Factors have in passing the school bond referendum?;This study was built upon Stockton's study (1994) and Faltys' study (2006). Particularly, this research used a survey to investigate the factors that contribute to passing a successful bond referendum as identified by selected New Jersey school superintendents. The data was gathered via an on-line electronic survey that was sent to the superintendents of New Jersey school districts as well as current literature and research relating to the successful passage of school bond referenda.;The research utilized the descriptive statistics of median and mode to describe the findings. The investigation yielded results that reflected findings from previous studies on the topic; and reflected the research presented in the review of the current literature. Particularly, the perception of trust. credibility, and involvement of the stakeholders proved to be very influential in passing a school bond referendum.;The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors that contribute to passing a successful school bond referendum as identified by selected New Jersey school superintendents. The investigation also included a historical review of bond referenda across the nation and the creation of the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act in New Jersey.