Prosper ISD sets sight on future with $2.8 billion bond proposal

Prosper, Texas - The Prosper Independent School District (PISD) Board of Trustees has unanimously approved a bond election set for November 7. This decision follows thorough considerations by the district's Long Range Planning Committee, which evaluated demographic data, housing statistics, and a comprehensive facilities study. The resulting bond package is segmented into four distinct propositions.

The primary proposal, Proposition A, with a budget allocation of $2.4 billion out of the total $2.8 billion, focuses on addressing the district's expanding student numbers. This proposition encompasses the construction of several new schools, an administration building, a professional learning center, and an innovative outdoor learning facility. It also lays out plans for the modernization of eight campuses, expansion of four, repurposing of the current administration building, enhanced safety and security, technology acquisition, land purchases for future schools, and the provision of transportation assets.

Proposition B, allocated $140 million, is designed to advance the district's technological capabilities, providing the latest devices to students, educators, and staff. This digital upgrade aligns with PISD's dedication to fostering a state-of-the-art educational environment.

Proposition C, with $102 million, aims to elevate the district's athletic facilities. This includes the construction of a new stadium with 8,000 seats and the renovation of existing athletic amenities.

Finally, Proposition D, supported by a $125 million budget, envisions the establishment of a state-of-the-art performing arts center, anticipated to accommodate around 2,500 patrons. This facility will be available not only to students specializing in various art forms but also to the larger community for rental purposes.

This bond is a response to the substantial growth PISD has observed, with the intention of preserving its commitment to high-quality education and extracurricular opportunities.

By the 2023-24 academic year, PISD reported a student population of 28,000, on its way to a forecasted 50,000, as mentioned by Superintendent Holly Ferguson. "Growth is our greatest opportunity to improve every second of every day,” stated Ferguson. However, she also highlighted challenges associated with this growth, such as infrastructure constraints, adjustments in attendance boundaries, and strain on programs and faculty.

Ferguson revealed that nearly 5,000 students are accommodated in 134 classrooms within 58 portable buildings, underscoring an urgent need for enduring infrastructure. Additionally, there's a demand for larger auditorium spaces, given the volume of events and community requests.

The district's planning committee's role was to guide PISD's construction endeavors over the next five to seven years. Doug Whitt, Senior Managing Director of SAMCO Capital Markets, presenting the bond's financial aspects, recognized the intricacy of such a large-scale initiative. He mentioned the district's preference for a rolling three-year bond model to schedule staggered facility construction.

Superintendent Ferguson clarified that this bond would not alter the district's tax rate. The board will finalize the tax rate for 2023-24 on August 28. The bond's propositions will be available for PISD voters' consideration on November 7. Ferguson stressed the bond's significance, emphasizing the necessity of its approval.

Credit: Prosper ISD, Community Impact, Dallas Metro News