Celina Might Get Another High School: Why That’s A Big Deal

Celina ISD is taking proactive measures to manage its rapidly growing student population by introducing a bold proposal — a $2.295 billion bond referendum.

But what does that mean? In short, it could mean more schools — 11 of them to be exact. That’s seven new elementary schools, two new junior high schools, and early childhood school and one, yes, one new high school. 

The Celina ISD Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Feb. 3 to call for a bond election that, if approved by voters, will fund vital infrastructure to accommodate the district’s expansion. The proposed plan includes new schools, safety upgrades and enhanced academic opportunities, all aimed at supporting the continued growth of the community.

Local Profile reached out to Celina ISD for comment. This story will be updated pending response. 

But Why Does A New High School Matter?

Celina — currently home to more than 43,000 residents —  is one of the fastest-growing cities in North Texas, with over 800 individuals moving to the area each month. For the 2024-2025 school year, Celina ISD saw its student population rise to 5,300, reflecting an increase of 838 students compared to the previous year.

As a result, the district is projected to double in size within the next five years and could potentially quadruple its student population over the next decade. According to district officials, several campuses are already reaching maximum capacity, and all campuses will exceed their limits within three years without the construction of additional schools.

How Celina ISD Compares To Other Districts

Similar to Celina, Allen ISD only has one high school, and with over 6,000 students, it's the largest high school in Texas and one of the largest in the country. But, differing from Celina, Allen residents can also send their children to Lovejoy ISD in neighboring Lucas, Texas. If you drive west, you’ll find an entirely different situation in Frisco. Frisco ISD — home to over 22,000 high school students alone — has 12 high schools. Plano has nearly 8,000 high school students and three high schools. Initially Plano, however, only had one, eventually adding two more to keep with growth. Celina could follow a similar path. 

Another Factor: Football, Of Course

This is Texas, and high school football is a big deal. Celina ISD’s football team, the Bobcats, competes as a 4A Division 1 program — and is really good, with a 2024 season of 16-0, winning the state championship. Currently, the district plays at the Celina Athletic Complex, which has a seating capacity of 6,500. The complex was completed in Fall 2018 at a cost of $24.5 million.

With the addition of a second high school, the district faces the decision of constructing a new, possibly, expensive stadium, or like in Richardson ISD, having multiple schools share the stadium. 

The Good News: The Bond Will Not Raise Taxes

The bond will not require a tax rate increase, as it will be funded through the district’s existing tax rate. All bond funds will remain within Celina ISD, ensuring that the money will directly benefit the district’s schools and students. 

Why People Are Moving To Celina

Celina is a great place to live — safe, with excellent schools and easy access to Dallas. But there's more to it. The entire area is expanding, transforming Plano and Frisco from Dallas suburbs into their own economic centers, creating what’s dubbed DFFW (Dallas-Fort Worth). The suburbs now have suburbs.

As Plano and Frisco grow with new developments and corporate headquarters, neighboring cities see the benefits — job opportunities, economic activity and increased housing demand pushing growth further north. This trend, which began in Dallas in the 1960s, continues as Plano and Frisco become major economic hubs, benefiting their northern neighbors. With an influx of new residents and thriving economies, these cities have shifted from quiet rural areas to highly desirable destinations for families and professionals. Celina is a prime example of this transformation.

Election Day Information

Celina ISD voters will have the opportunity to approve or reject the bond referendum in the upcoming May election. Election Day is set for May 3, and early voting will begin on April 22, 2025. 

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