After receiving a suggestion from Project Kids, an 81-member citizen advisory group, the Allen ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved a bond election set for Nov. 5, 2024.
The proposed projects for the upcoming bond election include a wide range of enhancements aimed at improving safety, maintenance, learning environments, technology and transportation within Allen ISD.
One key focus is safety and security updates across all campuses. These upgrades will involve enhancing security camera systems, implementing weapon detection capabilities and installing intruder alert systems. Additionally, the plan includes improvements to central lockdown protocols, reconfiguring main entrances at campuses lacking secure visitor access next to the main office, and replacing aging safety equipment such as AEDs, fire panels, fire alarms and fire suppression systems that have reached the end of their operational life.
Maintenance and efficiency upgrades are also highlighted. Various campuses will see the replacement of flooring, wall coverings, lighting, plumbing, HVAC systems and other elements that typically experience wear and tear over the 15 to 17 years between campus update cycles. The updates will utilize materials that offer longer-lasting finishes and greater energy efficiency.
Updates to learning spaces are also planned for several campuses. Following the major renovations supported by the 2020 bond election, the initiative aims to align learning environments with the community-driven standards outlined in the SOAR 2030 strategic plan. The campuses targeted for these enhancements include Curtis Middle School, Ford Middle School, Olson Elementary, Cheatham Elementary, Green Elementary, Norton Elementary and Anderson Early Childhood School.
Technology improvements will focus on upgrading devices and infrastructure. This will include providing students with new computer devices, enhancing the campus WiFi network and updating classroom media stations to facilitate better learning experiences.
Transportation updates will involve replacing buses that are nearing the end of their useful lifespan. The plan also includes upgrading transportation hardware and software to ensure real-time student safety while traveling.
But Allen ISD is not the only district seeking a large bond. As Local Profile previously reported, Frisco ISD is asking voters to consider a $1.08 billion bond, which includes a tax increase, as well as technology and safety enhancements.
It’s too late to register to vote, as the last day was Oct. 7, 2024. However, those registered have multiple places throughout the city to cast their votes for the Presidential Election, as well as local issues. Early voting and Election Day voting locations were previously announced, but are subject to change.
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