Dallas ISD Engages Community for Input on 2026 Bond Proposal

The Dallas Independent School District (Dallas ISD) is actively seeking community input on its proposed bond program for 2026. A workshop scheduled for December 18, 2025, will conclude a series of community meetings where district leaders will present project recommendations for review by the board of trustees. While no vote will occur during this session, the feedback gathered will significantly inform the final bond proposal.

The impetus for this bond proposal comes after the district’s previous bond initiative in 2020, which amounted to over $3 billion. This funding led to substantial improvements, including over 200 renovations and the construction of 15 new campuses. As a result, the average age of Dallas ISD’s buildings has decreased from 51.7 years to 42.8 years, according to Dallas ISD Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde. Nevertheless, district officials assert that further work is necessary to continue modernizing facilities.

Trustees have emphasized the importance of addressing ongoing issues highlighted during recent community meetings. Trustee Byron Sanders stated, “We can’t get it all done, but we’re going to get a lot done,” during a discussion at the Judge Barefoot Sanders Law Magnet at the Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center. Parents and staff contributed valuable insights, ranking their priorities for the bond.

The planning process for the bond began in October 2024 with internal discussions, followed by the formation of an executive bond steering committee in February 2025. A preliminary survey was conducted in March, leading to extensive community engagement through various channels, including pop-up events and input from over 100 committee members.

Key components of the bond proposal include multiple propositions intended to address urgent needs and modernize educational facilities. Proposition A represents the largest portion of the proposal and aims to fund new buildings, critical repairs, safety upgrades, and enhancements to playgrounds and athletic facilities. Addressing deferred maintenance is crucial for maximizing learning time and preventing facility shutdowns, according to district leaders.

Proposition B focuses on technology, including devices and Wi-Fi systems essential for effective learning. Superintendent Elizalde noted, “Students can’t learn if the network or devices fail.” Proposition C aims to refund certain debts to manage the timing and cost of borrowing, helping to mitigate potential tax increases. Finally, Proposition D addresses repairs for Dallas ISD’s five pool facilities, which have seen little attention in the past decade.

Community members have voiced their support for the bond, despite the possibility of a small tax increase. At a meeting at Sunset High School, parent Melissa Esparza expressed her concerns about the lack of updates at Leila P. Cowart Elementary, stating, “It looks exactly the same as when I graduated in 1999.” Concerns were also raised regarding outdated facilities at schools like Irma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School.

As the process advances, Dallas ISD officials are committed to ensuring that the bond proposal meets the needs of students and aligns with community expectations. The board is scheduled to meet on January 8 and January 20, 2026, to review and potentially finalize the bond proposal for a vote in May 2026. Surveys indicate that a May election would be less crowded and more cost-effective for educating voters, according to Superintendent Elizalde.

With a focus on eliminating portables and ensuring every teacher has a dedicated classroom, the district aims to enhance the learning environment significantly. “With a 2026 bond, we will get rid of every single portable in this district,” stated David Bates, Dallas ISD’s chief of operations.

This initiative is part of a broader community-driven effort, supported by various local organizations and entities, to enhance educational facilities across North Texas. The Dallas ISD continues to emphasize that the success of this bond proposal hinges on active community participation and feedback.