Red Oak ISD plans $213M bond for new school and facility upgrades amid rapid growth

The Red Oak Independent School District (ISD) is making significant strides to address the growing needs of its student population, as discussed in the recent school board meeting held on January 27, 2025. A key highlight was the ongoing construction of a new one-story middle school, which is on track to be completed under budget by $1 million. This facility is set to co-locate with Roms Middle School in the fall of 2025, with plans for students to move in during the spring semester of 2026.

The board also proposed a bond election scheduled for May 3, which aims to fund Phase 2 of a long-range plan to tackle overcrowding and enhance educational opportunities at both the elementary and high school levels. Currently, Red Oak High School is operating beyond its functional capacity of 2,165 students, with an enrollment of 2,298 as of fall 2024. This overcrowding has led to teachers sharing classroom space and students being bused to other facilities for classes, highlighting an urgent need for additional classroom and student space.

The district's elementary schools are also feeling the strain, with a current enrollment of 2,919 students against a functional capacity of 2,984. The growth is particularly pronounced on the west side of the district, prompting discussions about the need for smaller neighborhood schools. Temporary solutions, such as portable classrooms, have been implemented, but these are costly and only serve as a short-term fix.

In response to the rapid growth, the district is looking to expand its facilities significantly. The proposed bond includes three propositions: Proposition A focuses on constructing and upgrading school facilities, including a new elementary school with a capacity of 650 students, a Career and Technology Education (CTE) building, and gymnasium improvements. Proposition B addresses high school athletic enhancements, while Proposition C involves renovations to Goodloe Stadium.

The CTE building is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to provide dedicated space for vocational training, which is increasingly important for students not pursuing traditional college paths. The new facility will alleviate overcrowding at the high school and enhance the educational experience by reducing travel time between campuses.

As Red Oak ISD prepares for this growth, the board emphasizes the importance of community engagement and fiscal responsibility. The district has seen a 77.31% growth rate since 1990, with projections indicating an influx of 8,555 new residents in the coming years. The board's proactive approach aims to ensure that the district can accommodate this growth while maintaining high educational standards and providing diverse opportunities for all students.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Red Oak ISD school board meeting reflect a commitment to addressing the pressing needs of a rapidly growing student population. With the proposed bond and ongoing construction projects, the district is poised to enhance its educational facilities and better serve its community in the years to come.