We recommend in the Frisco ISD bond and tax election

Frisco ISD has been one of the fastest growing districts in North Texas for years. But that growth has slowed, and now the district is thinking about long-term upkeep while worrying that it can keep teachers on the payroll.
This election, voters will be asked to approve three bond proposals totaling about $1.08 billion as well as a slight tax rate increase aimed at improving teacher pay. Both of these represent investments that will help Frisco ISD preserve the high quality of education and opportunity that attracts families to the district and gives them a reason to stay. We recommend that voters approve them.
Let’s start with the big ask: Proposition A, a VATRE, or Voter Approval Tax Rate Election. We are generally reluctant to support tax rate increases, but we believe that when Frisco voters review the facts underlying this vote, they will agree this is fiscally prudent.
Proposition A would raise the maintenance and operations portion of the district’s tax rate by just under 3 cents, bringing the overall rate up to $1.0569 per $100 valuation. It’s important to note that as recently as 2017, Frisco ISD’s tax rate was $1.46, and the district has consistently lowered its rate as property values have risen.
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But like other school districts, Frisco has a problem. The state has failed to act to adjust school funding since 2019. Frisco leaders backing this VATRE want to raise teacher pay to stay competitive. Everyone in Frisco, and plenty of people not there, know that the city’s big draw is the excellence of its schools. Getting raises in teachers’ pockets means stability and experience that will help elevate Frisco schools.
Under the proposed increase, the average homeowner would see their tax bill rise by $158. That’s based on a roughly $730,000 home with an average taxable value of about $540,000, according to a district presentation. Those with senior and disabled exemptions would not see a tax increase.
This vote is something of a bellwether. Teacher pay has stagnated as the Legislature and Gov. Greg Abbott have focused on vouchers at the expense of using the state’s surplus to increase the basic allotment to public schools. Frisco ISD is trying to take a step to ensure that teachers stay in the district and the profession. We wish the state had acted and saved local taxpayers this choice, but it didn’t. Based on that, we think Frisco’s leaders are wisely stepping up and asking the community to provide the support to teachers that the state won’t.
And that brings us to the bond propositions, something Frisco voters have consistently supported to help ensure the schools and facilities are well maintained and up to the standards Frisco residents expect.
Proposition B represents the largest share of proposed bond dollars, and we encourage a yes vote to it. This $986 million proposal includes funds for HVAC, roofing, electrical and plumbing improvements across the district. It would also bring security updates, including surveillance cameras and alert systems.
Its single biggest construction item is the replacement of Staley Middle School on an adjacent site. It also includes major renovations to 20 of the district’s older campuses, including Ashley Elementary, Clark Middle School and Frisco High School.
We’re recommending that voters approve Proposition C as well. This $88.2 million bond package would pay for important technology upgrades throughout the district. It would set up a five-year replacement cycle for student and staff devices. It would also allow the district to update its network and add additional wireless access points.
On Proposition D, we offer our support more hesitantly. This $11.2 million package would pay for a new tennis facility featuring 16 courts, seating, a concession stand and restrooms. As they are generally not a necessity, athletics facilities bonds are always a little bit sticky.
A standalone tennis facility is surely a luxury item, and our support is based on support for similar specialty sports facilities in other districts. We understand that many voters may be reluctant about such things. Supporters hope it can be rented and become a revenue source when it isn’t up for district use. Demonstrating that would go a long way to relieving legitimate concerns that this is overspending.
Overall, we urge Frisco voters to look at the facts and support these items, especially A, B and C. Those are about the ongoing health of the district and, ultimately, the city of Frisco itself.
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