The Plano ISD Board of Trustees officially named its second Welcome and Enrollment Center the Bonser-Thomas Welcome and Enrollment Center in recognition of retired Superintendent Sara Bonser and Coordinator of Student Services James Thomas III.
The unanimous decision was made during the board’s regular meeting on December 10, 2024. The naming process, guided by board policy, involved a thorough review and input from a committee chaired by Board President Nancy Humphrey. “We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who submitted nominations,” said Plano ISD Superintendent Dr. Theresa Williams in an official statement.
Details About The New Welcome And Enrollment Center
Located at 6210 Mapleshade Lane in Dallas, the 11,000-square-foot facility will provide West Plano ISD families with comprehensive support services aimed at enhancing student success and fostering strong family, school and community connections. Expected to open in late February 2025, the center honors the contributions of Bonser and Thomas, who together represent more than 70 years of service to Plano ISD.
The Decision Honors Decades Of Dedication To Education
Bonser, whose 33-year career included roles as teacher, principal and superintendent, was instrumental in establishing the district’s first Welcome and Enrollment Center in East Plano in 2021. Reflecting on this milestone, she emphasized the importance of creating accessible, welcoming spaces for families. “We said back then that ‘it is time to wrap around and not have families run around,’” she said in an official statement. “Thank you to the Plano ISD board and leadership team for seeing this vision through.”
Thomas, with more than 45 years of service in roles ranging from teacher to administrator, has been a dedicated advocate for at-risk students and families. His extensive collaboration with community organizations to support homeless and underserved populations underscores his selection as co-namesake. “What an honor this is and I am so blessed,” Thomas said. “I cannot thank you enough.”
During the meeting, Williams praised both honorees for their enduring impact on the district. “Their dedication to education, student success and community outreach make them exemplary choices for this honor,” Williams said. “The Bonser-Thomas Welcome and Enrollment Center will reflect their legacy of compassion, exceptional care and commitment to the students and families of Plano ISD.”
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