Early voting for the November 4 General Election is from October 20-31. On the November ballot, the BISD community will have the opportunity to vote on a bond proposal developed by a diverse group of citizens (parents, grandparents, senior adults and business leaders) from all parts of the district. The proposal includes:

Security Upgrades

• Enhance security throughout the District

Rebuilds

• Birdville Elementary
• The Academy at West Birdville Elementary
• North Richland Middle

Science Upgrades

• Provide for safe and compliant science labs

Technology Upgrades

• Provide a robust wireless network to serve every classroom
• Replace obsolete technology devices
• Fund technology upgrades to meet current and future instructional needs
• Will be paid for within five years

Renovations & Upgrades

• Address critical renovation needs requiring action in the next one to three years
• Improve Facility equity among high schools

If voters approve the proposition, the $163.2 million proposal would increase property taxes approximately $3 per month on a house valued at $120,000; approximately $6 a month on a house valued at $225,000; and approximately $9 a month on a house valued at $330,000. (These values are prior to the $15,000 homestead exemption.) However, for residents age 65 or older who apply for the “Over 65” homestead exemption, state law prohibits the district from raising school taxes. Therefore, BISD residents who have an “Over 65” homestead exemption will not see an increase in their school taxes if the bond program is approved by voters.

I want to encourage you to accept BISD’s Get 5 Challenge.

•  Get Informed about BISD’s 2014 bond proposal
• Get Five of your Friends
• Go Vote!

Vote early October 20-31 or on Election Day November 4.

For specific details on the 2014 bond program or voting locations, visit www.bisdbond14.net