Hereford ISD proposes $150M bond for new high school and campus safety upgrades

Hereford Independent School District leaders have called for a $150 million bond election that would fund a sweeping set of facility upgrades, including construction of a new high school, installation of safe rooms at every campus, and redevelopment of existing district property for athletic use.

The proposal was developed by the district’s Facility Planning Committee, a group that brought together community members, city officials, school board representatives, teachers, and parents. The committee’s work focused on addressing aging infrastructure, student safety, and long-term educational needs.

A significant portion of the bond—about $127 million—is earmarked for building a new high school to replace the current campus, which dates back to 1954. District officials report that the existing building no longer meets modern standards set by the Texas Education Agency. Concerns include undersized classrooms and an HVAC system that falls short of current ventilation and air circulation requirements. The new campus would be designed to meet updated standards while also incorporating career and technical education programs in a more secure and modern environment.

In addition to the high school, the bond plan includes relocating tennis courts, constructing a new softball field, and demolishing a former school building to create space for expanded athletic facilities. Another major component is the addition of safe rooms across all campuses, aimed at improving student and staff protection during severe weather events.

District leadership has emphasized that the proposal reflects long-term planning and community input. Supporters note that current students have taken an active role in raising awareness about the bond, even though many will not directly benefit from the completed high school due to the estimated three-year construction timeline. Their efforts are framed as an investment in future generations of students.

If approved by voters, the bond is expected to result in a projected tax rate increase of 35 cents per $100 of taxable value. For a home valued at $170,000, this would translate to an estimated monthly increase of $9.83.

The bond election is scheduled for May 2, with early voting set to run from April 20 through April 28. Voters will ultimately decide whether to move forward with the district’s proposed upgrades and investments in its facilities.