Two area school boards decided this week to move forward on bond issues to construct new schools.

The De Soto school board will seek approval of up to $72 million in bonds to expand Mill Valley and De Soto high schools and construct a seventh elementary school in the growing district. In addition, the board agreed this week to use $3.5 million from the district’s capital outlay fund to expand Starside Elementary School in De Soto and Clear Creek Elementary School in Shawnee.

Superintendent Sharon Zoellner estimated a $72 million bond issue would mean a property tax increase of about 7.2 mills. The estimated total tax increase for a $100,000 home would be $82.77.

Also on Nov. 4, voters in the Baldwin school district likely will be asked to approve $22.9 million in bonds to finance a new 480-student Baldwin Elementary School Primary Center and early childhood center; a new performing arts center, four baseball and softball fields, a practice track and field facility, roof and updated heating and cooling systems at Baldwin Junior High School; and technology and security needs.