UPDATE: Dallas Independent School District (ISD) is making urgent strides towards a new bond proposal aimed at revitalizing local schools. A key community workshop is set for December 18, 2025, where district leaders will unveil project recommendations that could shape the future of education in Dallas.
As the district finalizes its preparations for a potential bond election in May 2026, community input is critical. Even though no vote will take place during this workshop, the insights gathered will directly influence the final package presented to trustees.
The previous $3 billion bond approved in 2020 has led to over 200 renovations and the construction of 15 new campuses, significantly reducing the average age of school buildings from 51.7 years to 42.8 years. However, Dallas ISD officials, including Chief Construction Officer Brent Alfred, emphasize that more work is needed to address ongoing challenges.
At community meetings held throughout December, residents voiced their concerns and priorities. Trustee Byron Sanders reassured attendees, stating, “We can’t get it all done, but we’re going to get a lot done.” The proposed bond is designed to not only modernize classrooms but also improve safety and accessibility across the district.
The bond proposal encompasses several key components, including:
- Proposition A: Funding for new buildings, major repairs, and upgrades to playgrounds and athletic facilities.
- Proposition B: Investment in technology, ensuring that devices and Wi-Fi are reliable for students’ learning.
- Proposition C: Refund certain debts to manage borrowing impacts and prevent tax spikes.
- Proposition D: Repairs for five neglected pool facilities, addressing safety and access issues.
Trustees are expected to review the bond proposal in detail during board meetings on January 8 and January 20, 2026. They aim to finalize details for the upcoming election, with a focus on reducing construction costs and ensuring a smooth implementation timeline.
Parents, teachers, and staff have expressed overwhelming support for the bond despite the potential for a slight tax increase. Many advocates highlighted the dire need for updates, with one parent, Melissa Esparza, recalling her own experience at Leila P. Cowart Elementary: “It looks exactly the same as when I graduated in 1999. There needs to be an update.”
District officials are also emphasizing that funding from the bond will remain within the Dallas ISD, enhancing local educational facilities. With the demand for modernized learning environments rising, the bond’s approval could significantly impact the quality of education for thousands of students.
As the proposal moves forward, community engagement will be key. Dallas ISD encourages residents to participate actively in shaping the future of their schools, ensuring that the next generation of students receives the educational resources they deserve. Stay tuned for further updates as the January meetings approach.
