Many of you may have questions regarding the redistricting process that your district is obligated to complete by December 31st. The House of Representatives has graciously agreed to provide technical assistance to school districts in this process. They have mapping software they utilized for legislative reapportionment, that they are making available to school districts as well. There is contact information for the Redistricting Office included in the letter from the House of Representatives. Using this mapping software, the Redistricting Office will be able to show you the population statistics for all areas of your school district, in order for you to determine if an adjustment needs to be made to your ward boundaries to meet the 10% variation limitation.
The House mapping software does not currently have all school district ward boundaries. Please be prepared when you contact the Redistricting Office, with a copy of your current existing school district and ward boundary lines. An electronic format of these boundaries would be preferred, as it is easier for them to sync this information with the mapping software. However, a paper copy would also be acceptable if you do not have an electronic copy. This will enable the Redistricting Office to draw the existing wards in, so that you may see the current population statistics and determine if a change is needed.
The OSSBA would recommend that you accomplish this process prior to the middle of November, when you will be passing a resolution for the 2012 annual school board elections, just in case there is an impact on the ward up for election in February.
If you have any questions regarding the redistricting process or the requirements of 70 O.S. 5-107A, please contact our attorneys at 405.528.3571. The House is only able to offer technical assistance and the use of their software in this process, which will simplify things substantially. The decision regarding a change in ward boundaries remains the responsibility of your Board of Education.
Click here for a letter from the House of Representatives with the Redistricting Office contact information and click here for the form they’ll need prior to providing assistance.