Spring ISD voters will decide on a $850 million bond measure on the Nov. 8 general election ballot, with three propositions that would include the rebuilding of Spring High School, construction of a district wide education and performance facility, renovations for several campuses, updates to technology, and safety and security features for all campuses.
After hearing the recommendation from the Bond Steering Committee, the Spring ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved calling the election that will seek voter approval to fund the following projects:
- Improve the district’s safety and security capabilities
- Rebuild Spring High School
- Refresh the current or design the future Westfield High, Reynolds Elementary, and Jenkins Elementary Schools based on community feedback
- Address districtwide facility maintenance improvements
- Build a districtwide education and performance facility. Spring ISD would utilize this building as a reunification center in the event of emergencies. The center will also be used for districtwide and community educational events, graduation ceremonies, performance and visual arts programs, and indoor athletic events and competitions.
In addition, the proposed measures would include funds to address districtwide technology and specific safety and security needs, including:
- Add shooter-detection systems for all locations
- Enhance the coverage and density of security camera systems
- Provide technology improvements
- Purchase regular education and special needs buses
“I am so appreciative of the many hours our Bond Steering Committee put in to ensure they had a firm understanding of the safety and security, facility and technology needs we have in the district,” said Dr. Lupita Hinojosa, Spring ISD Superintendent. “Our students and their learning are at the core of everything we do, and now more than ever we have a responsibility to provide them with a safe and innovative learning environment.”
The Bond Steering Committee dedicated many hours to reviewing safety, security and facility maintenance needs. Its recommendation presented to the Board also addressed technology and rebuild projects. The committee was composed of parents, teachers, staff, students, current and former board trustees as well as faith-based leaders and community/business members.
“This bond presents us with the opportunity to provide our students with the tools and facilities they need to succeed and thrive, all while doing so in a safe, inclusive and equitable environment,” said Spring ISD Board of Trustees President Justine Durant.
If approved by voters, design work of the new construction projects is projected to begin in Spring 2023, with the first construction projects starting in Fall 2024.
The potential $850 million bond is estimated to require a property tax increase of 5 cents per $100 of valuation, which is expected to be offset by an anticipated decrease in the 2022 tax rate; therefore, the resulting tax rate will be the same or lower than the current tax rate.
In 2016, voters supported the district by passing a $330 million bond program, which was completed in 2021. Click here for more detailed information about the work completed under the 2016 bond. For more information on the 2022 bond, please click here.