AISD bond program discussed; board seeks input at upcoming hearings

Trustee Robert Schneider noted community engagement is crucial when looking at bond programs and that as much information as possible should be shared with the public. Hearings will be held Oct. 23 at Reagan High School and Oct. 25 at Crockett High School to listen to feedback from the community.

Potential priorities

A list of bond projects is not yet available, but the board discussed many options.

Trustees Vincent Torres and Cheryl Bradley noted 21st-century learning should be a focus, including getting technology into the hands of both students and teachers.

The district's top technology priorities now are basic systemic upgrades and improvements, Superintendent Meria Carstarphen said, noting she thinks it would behoove the district to research and evaluate further technology use.

"We don't have a great recycling system for how we get the newer, faster technology into the hands of teachers," she said.

Torres suggested improving athletic programs and facilities both at the campus level and districtwide.

Board President Mark Williams said the bond allows the board to make facility improvements that would reward the district's teachers.

"We are asking more and more of our people, and we can't pay them [more]," he said. "What we can potentially affect is the working conditions for our people."

That should be addressed for the benefit of not only teachers, but also students and parents, he said.

"It's the public's decision whether they're willing to pay the freight to support the facilities that we need," Williams said.