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The DeSoto Independent School DistriSchool Board hosted a public town hall meeting Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, at the DeSoto ISD Instructional Support Center Boardroom to consider the calling of a facilities bond. Community members had the opportunity to learn about the district’s facility planning process, proposed upgrades, an
meeting, which was packed with community members, board members, district staff, and local elected officials—includingcity council members and DeSoto Mayor Rachel L. Proctor, provided a platform for impactful discussions on the future of DeSoto ISD’s facilities.
During the meeting, district officials and members of the facilities planning committee presented an overview of proposed upgrades, including modernizing outdated buildings, expanding classroom spaces, and improving athletic and extracurricular facilities to accommodate a growing student population. Superintendent Dr. Usamah Rogers emphasized the importance of community involvement, noting that the district is committed to ensuring the proposed changes align with the needs of both students and local residents.
Facilities Planning mittee for the district members shared that the oldest building in the district is 54 years old, with the average age of district buildings at 34 years. Many facilities are in need of repairs and upgrades, including roofing, plumbing, energy efficiency, and safety improvements.
Nearby districts, including Dallas ISD, Cedar Hill ISD, Duncanville ISD, Red Oak ISD, and Lancaster ISD, have passed bond measures totaling $7.6 billion to build, repair, and upgrade their campuses.
Benefits of a Passed Facilities Bond for DeSoto ISD:
- Create inspiring spaces that enhance student learning and engagement
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Build and renovate campuses to ensure safety and security for students and families
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Upgrade athletic facilities to support student-athletes' success
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Improve infrastructure for healthier, more efficient school environments
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Align Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs with the needs of local employers
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Create hundreds of jobs through campus construction and renovations
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Invest in schools to strengthen DeSoto neighborhoods
The last facility bond passed for DeSoto ISD was 20 years ago, in 2005.
As the meeting continued, attendees were invited to ask questions, voice concerns, and suggest ideas for enhancing the district’s facilities.