FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

School districts are required by state law to ask voters for permission to sell bonds to investors in order to raise the capital dollars required to renovate existing buildings or build a new school. Essentially, it’s permission to take out a loan to build, renovate and pay that loan back over an extended period of time, much like a family takes out a mortgage loan for their home. A school board calls a bond election so voters can decide whether or not they want to pay for proposed facility projects.

Yes. Recent research by the Environmental Protection Agency suggests that a school’s physical environment can play a major role in academic performance. Leaky roofs and problems with heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems can trigger a host of health problems – including asthma and allergies – that increase absenteeism and reduce academic performance. Research links key environmental factors to health outcomes and students’ ability to perform.

Whitesboro ISD conducted a comprehensive Facilities assessment, demographic study and review of student enrollment projections. Based on the recommendation of results and information gathered through the Facility Planning Committee, a bond recommendation was made to the Board of Trustees.

Without bond money, the district would need to redirect educational funds used for instructional programs and services to fund increased building maintenance costs.

No, this bond does not include teacher salary increases. Teacher salary increases are determined by our Board of Trustees through a different process.

A school district’s tax rate is comprised of two components: the Maintenance & Operations tax (M&O) and the Interest & Sinking tax (I&S). M&O funds are used to operate the school district including teacher salaries, utilities, furniture, supplies, food, gas, etc. The I&S rate is used for capital projects such as school construction, infrastructure, renovations/additions, and technology . School bonds cannot be used for teacher salaries.

Yes. Whitesboro is expected to have 2,000 students by 2030. Currently, 3 of the 4 campuses are at capacity.

The property taxes of those 65 and older with a homestead exemption would not be affected if the bond referendum passes. Taxes of those receiving the 65 and older homestead exemption are frozen at their present rate for as long as they maintain their homestead.

You must apply for this exemption.

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A school district’s tax rate is comprised of two components: the Maintenance & Operations tax (M&O) and the Interest & Sinking tax (I&S). The M&O rate is used to operate the school district including salaries, utilities, furniture, supplies, food, gas, etc. The I&S rate is used to pay off school construction bonds. Bond sales only affect the I&S rate.

The current bond proposal for $118,000,000 would have a total impact of 18 cents for all propositions. Each proposition on the ballot is voted on individually and has a defined amount, scope, and tax impact.