On the evening of November 19th, Cleveland ISD’s Bond Planning Committee gathered in the C9 library for its third meeting to continue shaping the future of our district’s facilities and resources. The meeting brought together committee members, district leaders, and department heads to dive deeper into the district's needs and begin the process of prioritizing future projects.
Reviewing Facility Assessments and Learning About Building Costs
The committee started the meeting by reviewing the results of Cleveland ISD's comprehensive facility assessments. This in-depth analysis provided valuable insights into the current state of district buildings, helping to identify areas in need of improvement or upgrade. Committee members gained a better understanding of the district’s current infrastructure, allowing them to make informed decisions moving forward.
In addition to the facility assessments, the committee explored average building costs to ensure that proposed projects are financially feasible. This information will help guide decisions about the scale and scope of future bond-funded improvements, ensuring that all projects are appropriately aligned with both district needs and budgetary constraints.
Departmental Presentations Highlight Current Needs
One of the highlights of the evening was the informative departmental presentations from key district areas. Campus administrators, Maintenance, Transportation, and Career and Technical Education (CTE) all took the floor to present the current needs within their departments. Each presentation offered a unique perspective on the challenges faced by the district, giving committee members a comprehensive look at where improvements or investments are necessary.
- Campus Administrators Brandi Smith, Sukari Stredit-Thomas, and Ann Hill discussed the ongoing needs in their buildings, highlighting areas where scheduling changes and facility upgrades could improve the educational experience for students.
- Maintenance Director Bryan Brooks outlined the importance of regular upkeep and necessary repairs to keep district facilities safe, functional, and efficient.
- Transportation Leaders Kyle Guttridge and Megan Elsberry shared the increasing demand for reliable transportation and the need for upgraded buses and safety features.
- CTE Coordinator Karen Steinbach and Construction Student Guadalupe Campos presented their department’s growing requirements to meet the demands of an evolving workforce, including the need for updated equipment and specialized spaces to enhance learning opportunities for students.
The presentations sparked valuable discussion, helping the committee understand how each department contributes to the overall success of Cleveland ISD and where investments will have the most significant impact.
Looking Ahead: Developing Scenarios for the School Board
The next step in the bond planning process will be developing scenarios to present to the Cleveland ISD School Board for consideration when the bond is officially called. At the next meeting, the committee will begin narrowing down the list of potential projects, prioritizing those that will have the greatest benefit for students, staff, and the entire district community.
We encourage the Cleveland ISD community to stay informed and engaged as we continue this important process. The Bond Planning Committee is committed to making thoughtful, strategic decisions that will help shape the future of our district and ensure that Cleveland ISD remains a place where students can thrive.
Stay tuned for updates as we work toward making Cleveland ISD a stronger, more resilient district for years to come.
Visit www.clevelandisd.org/bond-planning for more information.
