UPDATE: Dallas ISD is urgently seeking community input on its proposed 2026 bond program, with a crucial workshop set for December 18, 2025. This final meeting will allow district leaders to present project recommendations for review by trustees, shaping the future of education in Dallas.
The bond proposal comes on the heels of a successful $3 billion bond in 2020, which funded over 200 renovations, 15 new campuses, and 10 facilities, significantly reducing the average building age from 51.7 years to 42.8 years. However, Dallas ISD officials stress that significant work remains, with many schools still in dire need of upgrades.
At a recent community meeting at Lincoln High School, trustee Ed Turner engaged with parents and staff, addressing ongoing issues within the district. “Every single dollar stays in Dallas ISD,” emphasized Chief Construction Officer Brent Alfred, highlighting the importance of community support for the bond.
The proposed bond seeks to modernize classrooms, enhance safety, and invest in facilities. Trustee Byron Sanders stated, “We can’t get it all done, but we’re going to get a lot done,” as he urged attendees to prioritize needs for their schools.
The bond is broken down into several key propositions:
– Proposition A focuses on new buildings and major repairs.
– Proposition B aims to upgrade technology essential for learning.
– Proposition C addresses debt refinancing to manage costs effectively.
– Proposition D targets repairs for aging pool facilities.
Parents and educators voiced strong support for the bond despite potential tax increases. One parent, Melissa Esparza, whose son attends Leila P. Cowart Elementary, expressed the need for updates, stating, “The school looks exactly the same as when I graduated in 1999.”
District leaders are optimistic about the bond’s potential impact, citing improvements in academic ratings post-2020 bond. “Our goal is to align facilities with community expectations,” said Elizalde, underscoring the bond’s focus on enhancing student life.
As the January 8 and January 20 board meetings approach, trustees are set to finalize the proposal for a scheduled vote in May 2026. This timeline is strategic; surveys indicate a May election would be less crowded and more cost-effective for voter education.
With the clock ticking, community engagement is critical. Dallas ISD encourages residents to participate in the upcoming workshop to voice their needs and preferences. The outcome of this bond proposal could significantly shape the educational landscape for years to come.
For Dallas ISD, the stakes are high. If the bond passes, it will not only enhance facilities but also directly impact the quality of education for thousands of students. The community is urged to act now—this is a pivotal moment for the future of education in Dallas.
