District News

When Waco ISD voters approved the 2021 Bond, the goal was to modernize the district’s infrastructure to match the potential of its students, with a specific focus on secondary schools. Today, that investment is paying dividends beyond the original scope. Thanks to the meticulous oversight of the district’s finance and construction departments, along with good investment earnings, the 2021 bond projects have been completed under budget, leaving an estimated surplus of $7.5 million that the Board of Trustees has now strategically allocated toward a new wave of campus enhancements.

Dr. Tiffany Spicer, Superintendent of Waco ISD, expressed her gratitude for the discipline that led to this opportunity.

"I am incredibly proud of our finance and operational teams, who have been such diligent stewards of the funds granted to us by the Waco ISD voters," Spicer said. "Their hard work and careful management have allowed us to maximize every dollar, ensuring we can provide even more high-quality facilities and safety improvements for our students and staff."

This bonus phase of construction isn't just about spending remaining funds; it’s about parity, safety, and operational excellence across the entire district.

Board of Trustees member Jose Vidaña, who has served on the Waco ISD school board since 2019 and was instrumental in the 2021 bond program, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the Board's commitment to the community's trust.

"Our taxpayers entrusted us with these funds to improve the lives of our students, and seeing these projects come in under budget is a testament to the district's integrity," said Vidaña. "By reinvesting these savings into projects like our athletic facilities and campus security, we are honoring our commitment to provide equitable, top-tier environments for every child in Waco ISD."

Bridging the Gap: Athletic Modernization and Parity for the “Coaches Classrooms”

A major pillar of the new plan is ensuring that every student-athlete in Waco ISD has access to high-caliber facilities, regardless of which campus they call home. The district is moving forward with projects focused on University High School and CC Middle School, with a cost estimate of $6.2 million.

• University High School: To mirror the facilities at Waco High, University High will see a renovation of its existing tennis courts, along with the addition of new courts. This expansion ensures the campus can host UIL competitions.
   
• CC Middle School: The focus here shifts to the natural grass field and track. The district will refurbish the track and replace the natural grass field. Crucially, the project includes a total overhaul of the irrigation and stabilization systems. CC Middle School will also receive upgrades to bleachers putting the school in line with the district’s other two middle schools. 

The goal is to finish these athletic projects by early summer 2027, ensuring everything is ready for the 2027-2028 school year.

Additional projects to include: 

 

• Dedicated Weather Resistant Canopies: These will be added at Lake Air Montessori, Mountainview Elementary, Brook Avenue Elementary, Provident Heights Elementary, Kendrick Elementary, South Waco Elementary, and Waco High School.
   
• Energy Management: The district will bring Kendrick and South Waco campuses up to the latest TEA compliance standards and install advanced HVAC controls.
   
• Safety and Security: Waco High School will receive additional security cameras, card access, fencing, exterior furniture, and safety window treatments; Kendrick and South Waco Elementaries will also receive safety window treatments. 

Because the district is utilizing existing purchasing co-ops, these projects are expected to be completed by January 2027.

Stewardship and Strategic Plan Alignment

The district is proud to be able to make additional improvements to several campuses staying within the original bond allotment. From improving the comfort, safety and security of students and staff, to showcasing financial efficiency, the district is also in alignment with its Strategic Plan 2030.

"It’s more than just saving money; it’s about reinvesting those savings back into our students and families to give them the best we can,” said Jerry Allen, Chief Operations Officer for Waco ISD.

With construction bids expected this summer and work beginning shortly thereafter, Waco ISD continues to set the gold standard for how a school district can turn a bond promise into a district-wide reality.