Dallas ISD Proposes Massive $6.2 Billion Bond for May Ballot

The bond would build 26 new schools and modernize aging facilities across the district.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 2:19am

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Dallas Independent School District is proposing a $6.2 billion bond package, the largest ever put forward by a Texas school district, to address aging infrastructure and improve learning environments for its 133,000 students. The bond would fund the construction of 26 replacement campuses, eliminate all portable classrooms, and modernize safety, technology, and athletic facilities across the district.

Why it matters

The bond is seen as crucial to providing safe and updated learning spaces for Dallas ISD students, regardless of their neighborhood. It comes as the district has improved its academic performance, with over 70% of campuses now earning A or B grades.

The details

The $6.2 billion bond proposal is divided into four propositions and would require a 1-penny increase in the property tax rate, though Dallas ISD would still have the lowest total tax rate among the ten largest school districts in the area. This translates to roughly $2.79 per month for the average homeowner, or $33.48 annually, though seniors with homestead exemptions would see no increase.

  • The school board approved the bond package unanimously in February 2026.
  • Voter registration closes on April 2, 2026.
  • Early voting begins on April 20, 2026.
  • The bond measure will be on the May 2, 2026 ballot.

The players

Dallas ISD

The Dallas Independent School District, which serves over 133,000 students across the city.

Mia Witt

A Dallas ISD special education teacher who supports the bond measure.

Joe Carreon

The president of the Dallas ISD school board.

Mike Rawlings

The former mayor of Dallas who is urging voters to support the bond.

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What they’re saying

“All students deserve safe and updated learning environments where they can imagine the brightest of futures for themselves regardless of their ZIP code.”

— Mia Witt, Dallas ISD special education teacher (Patch)

“This world is moving fast in technology, in capital, in how things are done. This bond will help sustain the momentum.”

— Mike Rawlings, Former Mayor of Dallas (Patch)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This bond measure represents a crucial investment in the future of Dallas ISD students, providing them with safe and modernized learning environments to support their academic success. The district's improved performance in recent years underscores the importance of this bond to sustain and build upon that progress.