April 2023 Update

Project Implementation

HVAC Replacements

• Eight schools have received mechanical upgrades with HVAC equipment replacement, with two more schools scheduled for this April and two this May. The remaining 18 campuses to receive the replacements are in various stages of the scheduling or procurement process.

Security Upgrades

• 53 campuses have received new interior and exterior cameras. The remainder of schools are to receive upgrades as part of their planned renovations.

Major Renovations

• Architects and contractors have been hired and assigned to the 36 school construction projects, and design work has been underway for all those schools. Architects are currently in the process of assessing conditions for each project and verifying scope to budget.
• Input from each school community has been an important part of the design development process, helping to identify the needs and priorities for each particular campus.
• Bond projects go through several stages from design, to bid, to construction to completion.
• Design development is nearing completion for the 15 schools that received partial renovations under Bond 2016 or Bond 2010.
  • Construction is already underway for four of those schools: JT Brackenridge ES, Bowden ES, Highlands HS and Rogers MS. The remaining 11 schools are expected to be under construction by fall 2023.
• Of the other 21 schools to receive major renovations: Construction has begun for CAST Med High School. The remaining 20 schools have been divided into phases 3 and 4 for their construction start schedule.

Construction Phasing

• While Bond 2020 projects were first established in pre-pandemic times, the implementation is happening in the much-changed post-pandemic world. Adjusting the program’s construction schedule into four phases has been critical in partially controlling the challenges of labor shortages, material delays and significantly rising prices.
• Phases 1 and 2 include completion of those schools with partial renovations under Bond 2016 or 2010. Phase 3 includes schools with large student populations – thus impacting the most students – and campuses that need additional space to accommodate growth. Phase 4 includes the remaining schools with small student population.

Technology Upgrades

• A total of 53 schools have received upgraded infrastructure for improved wi-fi throughout the campus (this is year 3 of the 5-year infrastructure roll-out plan.) Additionally, every classroom in these schools has received an interactive flat panel on a mobile cart. Eventually all classrooms in SAISD will have these.
• The District also purchased upgraded devices for students, and upgraded the Career Technical Education computer labs for programs that required high-end specialized devices.

Citizens Advisory Committee

• In September of 2021, Trustees approved the appointment of 21 members of the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) to inform and advise the Board in matters relating to Bond 2020.
• Meetings are held quarterly.
• In March 2023, CAC members completed bus tours of four 2016 Bond projects – seeing what bond dollars are doing, including creating 21st century learning spaces that serve as a blueprint for future renovations in the District.