Bond 2019 highlights from the year that was
Year four of the 2019 Bond program – or 2023 – brought some major accomplishments.
With $966 million in the 2019 Bond package, there are projects that impact every school, and there is ongoing construction throughout the district. Some bond projects are now done, some are in process and many are still to come.
All of them are designed to give students access to a remarkable education and world-class opportunities. And all of it is thanks to you. Your support makes these bond programs possible and is having a direct impact on tens of thousands of students today and for generations to come. So, thank you!
Here are five of the biggest Bond 2019 stories from the year that was. You’ll notice the top three are all similar.
1. New Webb Elementary opens
The first of four school replacements opened in January. The brand-new Webb, built right next to the old Webb, opened for students at the end of last year’s winter break.
2. Sir Earl Toon turns new Berry Elementary dedication into a celebration
When the new Berry Elementary opened in August – replacing the original Berry built in 1955 – Sir Earl Toon turned it into a celebration. The former member of Kool and the Gang performed several of his greatest hits – including “Celebration” – during the dedication ceremony.
3 New Thornton Elementary opens 
Not far from Berry, another new replacement school opened for students in August. The new Thornton replaced the old – built in 1956 – but preserved the spirit of the original along with its two stately oak trees.
4. Lots of new playgrounds open
The 2019 Bond included new playgrounds for all 53 elementary schools. By January of 2023, 24 schools were complete. By January of 2024, all 53 schools will be complete and every elementary student in the district will have access to incredible new playgrounds.
5. Construction of new junior high kicks off
Construction on the fourth and final school replacement included in the 2019 Bond kicked off at the end of 2023. A groundbreaking ceremony in October got everyone excited about the new junior high school that will replace Carter Junior High.
That top five represented just a few of the projects from 2023, and several others vied to make the countdown. A few of the runner ups included:
- The addition at Arlington High School went vertical.
- Construction started on Bailey Junior High’s addition
- Two elementary schools were demolished (Webb and Knox).
- A groundbreaking ceremony kicked off the Glaspie Field project.