Georgetown Approves Historic $649.5 Million School Bond

News Summary

On December 23, 2024, voters in Georgetown Independent School District approved a significant $649.5 million bond package aimed at expanding educational facilities and improving technology. The bond, driven by Proposition A, gained 70% approval and will fund the construction of new schools and technology upgrades to serve the district’s growing student population. With Georgetown’s rapid growth, the bond signifies a key investment in the area’s educational infrastructure, projecting a student increase of over 6,000 in the next decade.

Georgetown Celebrates Major School Bond Success

In an enthusiastic turn of events for the Georgetown Independent School District (GISD), local voters showed strong support for a substantial bond package on December 23, 2024. The approved measure, which totals a whopping $649.5 million, is set to propel significant growth and improvements across the school district, which currently serves around 13,000 students.

A Big Investment in Education

So, what does this mean for the future of GEORGETOWN schools? In simple terms, this funding will help build several new educational facilities, renovate older ones, and bring much-needed technology upgrades to the classrooms. The estimated cost for property taxpayers stands at a modest maximum of $2.77 monthly for the average homeowner, making it a win-win for both families and the school district.

The large chunk of this bond package comes from Proposition A, which received a hearty 70% approval (5,689 votes). This part of the bond—totaling $597.47 million—is focused on constructing new elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as enhancing security measures and making sure the district has enough modern school buses, even funding the purchase of two new propane-powered buses to replace aging diesel models.

Room to Grow

With Georgetown experiencing rapid growth—as it was recently named the fastest growing U.S. city with over 50,000 residents, boasting a remarkable 14.4% growth rate between July 2021 and July 2022—the demand for educational space is more pressing than ever. GISD projects an anticipated increase of over 6,000 students in the next ten years, and these new schools will accommodate as many as 4,400 of them.

Construction for this ambitious project could kick off as early as fall 2025, with new schools potentially opening their doors within the next two to four years. Future plans will see brand new elementary and middle schools sprouting up at district-owned property near Patriot Way and Texas 130, and a new high school along DB Wood Road, south of Cedar Breaks Road.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! The bond also includes reconfiguring the former Benold Middle School, which will serve the overcrowded Frost Elementary, sending a welcome wave of relief to both students and faculty.

Keeping Up with Tech

Adding some tech-savvy flair to the bond, Proposition B allocated $20.33 million for district-wide technology upgrades. This proposal, which was supported by 67% of voters (5,488 votes), will see enhancements in cybersecurity and the replacement of outdated devices, ensuring students can thrive in today’s digital landscape.

Prop C and Prop D also made their mark, receiving 63% and 61% support, respectively. Prop C will bring a new performing arts facility to East View High School, while updates at Georgetown High School’s performing arts facilities will also be a welcome addition. Prop D focuses on improving athletic facilities, including expansion of locker rooms at East View High and track repairs.

The Road Ahead

The last few years have certainly been a whirlwind for GISD. Enrollment has jumped significantly, leaping from 11,508 students in the 2017-18 school year to 13,063 in 2022-23—making for a 13.5% increase. As the community grows and flourishes, so too does the need for a well-equipped learning environment that helps kids reach their fullest potential.

In wrapping up, the approval of this bond package signals a future filled with promise for the Georgetown schools. As construction begins and new facilities take shape, the community can look forward to a better-equipped educational landscape that inspires the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and creators.