Voting YES will help address critical needs in our district, including new student growth, renovations of
aging campuses, and supporting CTE and athletic programs.
Approving the bond will enable the tax rate to remain the same at $1.21190. Property taxes are not
affected for citizens 65 years or older with a homestead exemption.Voting YES authorizes the Board of Trustees to sell bonds, which are like a home mortgage. This allows
the district to borrow money to fund school construction, capital projects, and land acquisition, repaid
over time with interest.The bond is for $165 Million and it will fund:
Proposition A: $137,600,000-
Replacement of C.C. Cooke Elementary School ($58,600,000)
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Replacement of Gerard Elementary School ($58,600,000)
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An addition to Jo & George Marti Elementary School ($10,400,000)
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Renovation and expansion of Agricultural Center ($10,000,000)
Proposition B: $27,400,000-
A new Cleburne ISD stadium at Cleburne High School
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From October 2024 to January 2025, the Facility Advisory Committee (FAC)—a dedicated group of community members, parents, business leaders, and district stakeholders—worked to evaluate enrollment trends, facility needs, and community feedback. Their mission was to prioritize students, address critical challenges, and develop a responsible plan for our future.
On January 21, the FAC’s recommendation led to a unanimous Board of Trustees vote to call for a $165
million bond election this May.If the bond passes, the tax rate will remain the same at $1.21190. Property taxes are not affected for
citizens 65 years or older with a homestead exemption.Investing in our schools now ensures that our growing student population has access to safe, modern, and effective learning environments. A YES vote will directly contribute to the betterment of our community and the future of our children.
Modern, Expanded Schools – New and upgraded campuses will provide state-of-the-art learning environments that meet today’s educational standards and prepare for a growing student population.
Stronger CTE Programs – Enhancements to the A.D. Wheat Agriculture Facility will give students more hands-on learning opportunities in high-demand agriculture career fields.
Enhanced Student Experience – A new multi-use stadium will support athletics, fine arts, and community events, creating more opportunities for student involvement as well as school and community pride.If the bond does not pass, the district will still face the same facility challenges and growing student population. Aging buildings will continue to require costly maintenance, and overcrowding will become a larger issue. Additionally, delaying these projects could result in significantly higher costs due to inflation and rising construction expenses. Without these improvements, the district may struggle to provide the best learning environments for students. Investing now ensures that Cleburne ISD can meet the needs of students and the community for years to come.
According to the Texas Constitution and Statutes (Education Code, Sec. 45.003.), the ballot proposition must include the following statement: “THIS IS A PROPERTY TAX INCREASE” when, in fact, the overall tax rate of $1.21190 will not increase.
A final plan for “The Rock” is still in development, but the district is committed to honoring its history
and legacy. The goal is to create a space that reflects its deep significance to Cleburne ISD and the
community.The new Cooke Elementary will be built on the same site as the current campus, minimizing disruption
while using existing district land. Gerard Elementary will be constructed in Belle Meadows on district owned
property, ensuring efficient use of resources and avoiding impact on daily operations.When new campuses open, Cooke and Gerard Elementary may serve as swing space for future projects, such as a potential Coleman Elementary rebuild in a future bond or department use, based on district needs.
The Facility Advisory Committee gave careful consideration to Coleman Elementary but ultimately
prioritized the most urgent needs while minimizing the tax impact. Built in 1952 and located next to a
flood plain, the site cannot support new construction. Coleman remains a priority for future bonds,
though a rebuild will require phased construction or a new location. In the meantime, the district will
continue maintenance to ensure the school continues to support students and staff.The 2015 International Building Code mandates that educational buildings in areas prone to storms or tornadoes with winds up to 250 mph must have safe rooms and storm shelters to protect students and staff. Coleman and Gerard's new facilities will be designed to meet all required code
Your property tax rate can change because the value of your home isn't fixed. Factors like new construction and land development can trigger a reassessment. For more information about your property values, contact the Johnson County tax assessor's office.
