Thursday evening at their regular monthly meeting, the Carthage ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved calling a bond election to be held on May 3, 2025, aiming to secure funding for infrastructure, maintenance, technology, and transportation needs across the district.
The proposed bond package totals $23 million, allowing the district to address facility improvements, technology upgrades, and transportation updates to support students and staff. The bond will be presented to voters in two separate propositions, and the Carthage ISD tax rate will not increase as a result of the bond election.
“Our district is committed to maintaining high-quality educational facilities that meet the needs of our students,” said Superintendent Jarrod Bitter. “This bond would allow the district to make improvements to those facilities, purchase new school buses and modernize the technology within Carthage ISD.”
Proposition A would provide $20 million of funding for facility upgrades, renovations, transportation improvements, and campus enhancements. Planned projects include repairs to roofs and parking lots, updates to paint, lighting, flooring, electrical systems, and other interior renovations.
Proposition B is a $3 million bond which would provide funding for Chromebook replacements, infrastructure upgrades, and software services.
This bond is designed to support the district’s priority projects over the next three years, ensuring funds are used strategically to address both immediate and future facility requirements.
While this bond focuses on immediate district projects, the board is also thoroughly evaluating options for the 75-year-old junior high campus. As one of the district’s aging facilities, future plans for Carthage Junior High will be a priority in a future bond proposal to ensure students have access to a safe, secure and modern learning environment.
“Our board is committed to thoughtful, strategic planning to ensure our facilities serve our students now and in the future,” said Board President Dr. Ben Donald. “We recognize the importance of addressing our aging junior high campus, and we will continue working toward the best possible solution for our students, staff, and community.”
The district will share information and resources leading up to the election to provide residents the opportunity to learn about the bond and its potential impact.