Showing Up for Our Schools: What a School Bond Makes Possible

Arlington’s public schools are at the heart of our community. They shape the experiences of our students, support working families, and strengthen neighborhoods across the city.  Arlington ISD approved a bond to be on the May election. The proposed $500 million school bond is an opportunity for our community to show up for our schools by investing in safe facilities, modern classrooms, and equitable access to opportunity for every student.

What Is a School Bond?

A school bond is a voter-approved tool that allows a school district to fund large, long-term capital projects. These are the kinds of investments that are too large to pay for through a district’s regular operating budget.

Under Chapter 45, a school district may use bond proceeds only for purposes that voters authorized, and those purposes must be capital in nature, such as:

• Construction and renovation of school buildings

• Purchase of land or facilities

• Safety and security improvements that relate to buildings

• Equipment and technology with a useful life of more than one year

• Other projects requiring long-term investment rather than annual operating funds 

This means you cannot use bond proceeds for everyday expenditures like:

• Teacher or staff salaries

• Classroom supplies

• Routine maintenance or operational costs

Bond funds are for long-term investments.

What This $500 Million Bond Would Cover

Based on recommendations from AISD’s Capital Needs Steering Committee, the bond prioritizes projects that received strong community support and address critical needs across the district.

• Safe, Accessible, and Well-Maintained Schools

  Many AISD facilities are aging and require significant updates to remain safe, functional, and accessible. This bond would fund:

  • ADA compliance improvements

  • Fire sprinklers, ceiling replacements, and life-safety upgrades

  • HVAC replacements and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing improvements

  • Roof replacements at multiple campuses

  • Restroom renovations across 12 schools

  • Exterior campus improvements

  These upgrades help ensure students across Arlington, regardless of neighborhood, learn in safe and dignified environments.

• Modern Classrooms and Learning Spaces

  To support today’s learning needs, the bond includes investments in:

  • Classroom furniture, fixtures, and equipment at elementary, junior high, and high schools

  • Library, kitchen, and cafeteria renovations

  • Classroom equipment upgrades

  • Instructional technology and audiovisual systems

  • Student and staff devices

  Modern learning spaces support student success and help educators deliver high-quality instruction.

• Special Education and Inclusive Learning

  The bond places strong emphasis on meeting the needs of all students, including:

  • Facilities for Special Education 18+ programs

  • Sensory motor lab additions and equipment

  • Inclusive and accessible design improvements

  These investments ensure students with disabilities receive the resources and environments they need to succeed.

• Transportation, Operations, and Infrastructure

  Reliable systems keep schools running smoothly every day. Bond funds would support:

  • Bus fleet and district vehicle replacements

  • Network operations center equipment

  • Facilities infrastructure networking

  • Cybersecurity improvements

  These behind-the-scenes investments are essential to safety, reliability, and long-term sustainability.

• School Safety and Security

  The bond focuses on prevention, communication, and preparedness through:

  • Video surveillance system improvements

  • Access control upgrades

  • Emergency communication systems

  • Alarm systems, vape sensors, metal detectors, and enhanced security infrastructure

  These measures are designed to create safer school environments while maintaining a focus on student well-being.

• Fine Arts, Athletics, and Student Activities

  Extracurricular programs play a vital role in student development and community connection. The bond includes:

  • Gym renovations and storm shelter improvements

  • Track repairs and resurfacing

  • Scoreboard additions and replacements

  • Athletic field and turf improvements

  These investments support whole-child development and community pride.

What Does This Mean for Property Taxes?

If approved, the bond is projected to result in a $0.01 tax rate increase, which averages about $18 per household per year.

That breaks down to:

• Roughly $1.50 per month

• Less than the cost of one streaming subscription

Bond funds stay local, are legally restricted to voter-approved projects, and require public reporting and accountability.

Why This Matters for Our Community

Strong public schools benefit everyone, not just families with children currently enrolled.

They:

• Strengthen neighborhoods

• Support economic stability

• Attract and retain families and employers

• Help ensure opportunity is not determined by zip code

This bond represents a proactive and equitable investment in Arlington’s future that addresses long-standing needs while planning responsibly for what comes next.

Sources and Further Reading

This post reflects our analysis and interpretation of publicly reported information.

Texas Education Code, Chapter 45
State statute governing school district property taxation, bonds, and debt, outlining the legal authority, limitations, and requirements for issuing school bonds, levying taxes, and managing school finance in Texas.

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?tab=1&code=ED&chapter=ED.45&artSec=