Des Moines Public Schools officials will conduct three community forums to enable community members to learn more about the Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL), which will be included on the ballot for the special school election on Sept. 14. Forums will be held at the following locations:

Goodrell Middle School (library)
3300 E. 29th St.
Monday, August 30
6:30-7:30 p.m.

North High School (cafeteria)
501 Holcomb Ave.
Tuesday, August 31
6:30-7:30 p.m.

Brody Middle School (cafeteria)
2501 Park Ave.
Thursday, September 2
6:30-7:30 p.m.

The current PPEL — which has provided $4.4 million in technology upgrades, musical instruments, and several other improvements throughout the district over the last 10 years — expires in June 2011.

“These forums will provide a chance for community members to learn more about how these important ‘maintenance’ funds are utilized in our district,” said Bill Good, chief operations officer for Des Moines Public Schools.

For more information about the PPEL, visit the district’s website at www.dmps.k12.ia.us.

The Des Moines Independent Community School District is Iowa’s largest provider of public education serving the individual needs of more than 33,000 students in 66 schools with more than 5,000 dedicated teachers and staff.