FAQs About Bond 2017

How was the decision made as to what would be included in this bond proposal?
When the 2004 Bond Program was presented to voters, a multi-phase master plan was also developed with elementary school facilities addressed in Phases 1, 2 and 3.  The first phase addressed the replacement of six elementary schools (Austin, Bell, Bonner, Douglas, Peete & Ramey). Additionally, Dr. Bryan C. Jack Elementary School was built as a new campus. During the second phase (Bond 2008), six elementary campuses (Clarkston, Griffin, Jones/Boshears, Orr & Woods) were replaced. Birdwell & Owens were renovated with remaining bond funds. During the third phase (Bond 2013), the remaining two elementary campuses, Dixie & Rice, were renovated. Boulter & Moore middle schools were replaced and the new Three Lakes Middle School was constructed. Bond 2013 also included the new Career and Technology Center (CTC).

Community input was a driving force in the development of the multi-phase master plan. For Bond 2017, the community input directed the district to address the two high schools.  

Our current high school facilities are serving populations beyond the original design and program capacity of the buildings. This is evidenced by portable classrooms housed on each campus.

When was the last bond referendum? How were those bond funds expended?
The last bond referendum passed in 2013. The bond referendum, totaling $165,500,000, was used to renovate two elementary schools (Dixie and Rice), rebuild two middle schools on their existing sites (Boulter and Moore) and construct a new middle school (Three Lakes) and new Career and Technology Center.

These projects began construction on time, were completed on time, and were completed under budget. The new facilities demonstrated an increase in security and safety measures by providing enclosed corridors, controlled entrances at reception areas, video surveillance cameras, alarms systems and card access control at all entrance points.

When is the Tyler ISD Bond Election?
The bond election has been called for Saturday, May 6, 2017. 

Who is qualified to vote in the Tyler ISD Bond Election?
All registered voters within the boundaries of Tyler ISD are qualified to vote.

How will this bond election impact my taxes?

  • Tyler ISD's current debt tax rate is 0.335;

  • The estimated annual tax impact to a $155,000 homeowner following the bond election is $39.00 annually or $3.25 monthly.

These statements assume the District does not take on any additional debt in subsequent years or that property tax values do not decline.

Are Senior Citizens exempt from any taxes? I’m 65, will this affect my taxes?
Residents who have an over-65 homestead exemption, and qualifying disabled veterans, have the security of knowing that their taxes were frozen at the time of their 65th birthday. Anyone who needs more information about the exemption should call the Smith County Appraisal District at 903.510.8600 and ask for the Exemption Department or go to the appraisal district’s website at www.smithcad.org.

When will the projects be completed?
The estimated ground breaking date is fall 2018 with an estimated completion date in 2021.

Where will students be during the construction process?
Students will continue to be housed on both campuses during the construction process. Careful attention to providing the least amount of distractions during the school day will be priority.

Why did the District decide to renovate the high schools instead of rebuilding new campuses?
The district considered feasibility reports for renovations and additions to the existing sites, as well as reports for constructing new buildings on new land sites. It was determined that the most cost effective plan for both high schools is to utilize the existing sites for renovations and  make additions.  

Can Tyler ISD employees attend bond rallies outside of their scheduled workday?
Yes, this is a permissible way for employees to express their personal support or opposition of the bond.

Can Tyler ISD employees endorse the bond outside of their scheduled workday?
Teachers and staff may endorse or oppose the bond outside of their scheduled workday.

Need more information about Bond 2017?
To schedule an informational bond presentation for your group/organization, or for additional information, please call the Tyler ISD Communications Office at 903.262.1064. You can also email jennifer.hines@tylerisd.org and questions will be answered promptly.