Public schools required by state law to ask voters for permission to sell bonds to investors in order to raise the capital dollars required to renovate existing buildings or build a new school. Essentially, it’s permission to take out a loan to build, renovate and pay that loan back over an extended period of time, much like a family takes out a mortgage loan for their home. A school board calls a bond election so voters can decide whether or not they want to pay for proposed facility projects.

Yes. Recent research by the Environmental Protection Agency suggests that a school’s physical environment can play a major role in academic performance. Leaky roofs and problems with heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems can trigger a host of health problems – including asthma and allergies – that increase absenteeism and reduce academic performance. Research links key environmental factors to health outcomes and students’ ability to perform.

Grayson College conducted a comprehensive Facilities assessment, demographic study and review of student enrollment projections. Based on the recommendation of results and information gathered through the Facility Planning Committee, a bond recommendation was made to the Board of Trustees.

Without bond money, the college would need to redirect educational funds used for instructional programs and services to fund increased building maintenance costs.

Simply stated, the growth in the Grayson College tax base has added additional bonding capacity. Texas Instrument’s new buildings alone will add $30 billion to the tax rolls over time. As such, the College can increase its bond capacity while maintaining the current tax rate. If the growth occurs faster than anticipated, the College would tackle capital projects more quickly on the master plan. If it happens slower than anticipated, the construction would be slowed down.