By Margaret Crone, Class of 2020, co-founder Crone & Co
A Century of Broughton Pride. A Commitment to Wake County’s Future.
As Broughton prepares to celebrate its centennial, we have plenty to reminisce about: the teachers who challenged us, the friendships that stayed with us, and the campus that still feels like ours long after graduation.
We also have something worth carrying forward. A school becomes a lasting institution because generations of people care enough to invest in it.
In the September issue, we introduced the 2026 Wake County School Bond and the Broughton alumnae managing the campaign. With early voting now underway, we’re taking a closer look at what the bond will fund and why it’s the best way to pay.
Those of us who attended Broughton can probably remember a classroom that was too hot or too cold, a ceiling that leaked when it rained, or an overcrowded “temporary” trailer that seemed to be working toward alumni status of its own. But our strongest memories are of the classmates and teachers who made those spaces special. Today’s students and educators in Wake County deserve buildings with working HVAC systems and safe, reliable spaces. That is what this bond would help provide.
What would a YES vote support?
The $680 million school bond prioritizes the schools we already have, helping fund renovations at nine campuses, HVAC replacements, safety and security improvements, and technology upgrades. It also supports three new elementary schools in growing communities.
Broughton alumni understand the value of that investment. We take pride in a historic campus that generations have worked to preserve and improve. Students at Hunter Elementary, Athens Drive High, Cary High, Briarcliff Elementary, East Wake High, Wendell Elementary, Ligon Middle, Washington Elementary, East Garner Middle and schools throughout Wake County deserve that same care and attention.
Their school buildings should support the memories and accomplishments being made inside them. When our students walk into their schools, they should know that Wake County cares for them.
Why pay through a bond?
A bond allows local governments to borrow for major projects and repay the money over time, with interest. General obligation bonds are backed by the government’s commitment and taxing power to repay, helping secure favorable borrowing terms.
Think of Wake County’s AAA rating—the highest available—as the government equivalent of excellent personal credit. Just as strong credit helps a household qualify for a lower loan rate, Wake’s rating helps keep borrowing costs low for taxpayers. Wake is among roughly 2% of counties nationwide to earn the highest rating from all three major credit rating agencies.
The Wake County School Bond is the best way to pay for these essential needs.
Bond funds are reserved for long-term investments in school buildings, infrastructure, technology and equipment. They cannot pay for teacher or staff salaries, benefits or everyday operating expenses, which are covered through separate operating budgets. The bond’s purpose is to provide safe, functional learning environments that serve students and staff for years to come.
The estimated annual property tax increase is $4.10 per $100,000 of assessed value, or $20.50 a year for a home assessed at $500,000.
Vote YES — and help spread the word.
Wake County voters can vote early through Saturday, October 31, at 3 p.m., at any early voting location in the county. Find Early Voting Hours/Locations here
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3. On Election Day, voters must use their assigned polling place. Find Your Election Day Polling Place here
On the back side of your ballot, find Wake County School Bond, and vote YES.
Visit VoteYesWakeSchools.com to learn more. Please share this information with colleagues, neighbors, and friends, even those whose children graduated years ago.
As we get ready to celebrate Broughton’s first century, we have an opportunity to support the students building their own school traditions today. Every Wake County student deserves space to learn, comfort to focus and a safe place to grow.
Follow @yeswakeschools on Instagram and Facebook for updates and more information from the campaign.