Gladewater ISD Proposes $8.1M Bond, No Tax Increase

District officials say the bond would fund safety upgrades, new buses, and career/technical education improvements.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Gladewater Independent School District is asking voters to approve an $8.1 million bond that would fund safety upgrades, new school buses, and improvements to career and technical education facilities and equipment. District officials say the bond would not increase the current tax rate.

Why it matters

The proposed bond aims to address aging infrastructure, transportation needs, and workforce development initiatives in the Gladewater area without raising taxes on residents. Passing the bond could help the district maintain and modernize its facilities and equipment to better serve students.

The details

The single-proposition bond would span 15 years and cover the purchase of new school buses with updated safety features, replacement and maintenance of aging HVAC systems, renovations to older campuses, and upgrades to career and technical education classrooms and equipment at Gladewater High School. District officials say some projects could be prioritized for completion before the 2026 school year if the bond is approved.

  • The district passed a bond in 2014 that is set to expire in 2045.
  • If approved, the district hopes to prioritize CTE classroom upgrades, bus purchases, and safety improvements during the summer so they are in place for students at the start of the 2026 school year.

The players

Gladewater ISD

The Gladewater Independent School District, which is seeking voter approval for an $8.1 million bond to fund various infrastructure and education initiatives.

Rae Ann Patty

The superintendent of Gladewater ISD, who says the proposed bond would not raise the district's current tax rate.

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What they’re saying

“Anyone that is skeptical, please contact me, the schools, or people that have sat in on the meetings already.”

— Rae Ann Patty, Superintendent (KETK)

What’s next

If voters approve the bond, district officials hope to prioritize CTE classroom upgrades, bus purchases, and safety improvements for completion before the start of the 2026 school year.

The takeaway

This bond proposal aims to address Gladewater ISD's infrastructure and education needs without raising taxes, demonstrating the district's commitment to fiscal responsibility and providing quality facilities and programs for its students.