Voters approve $8.1M ISD bond

GLADEWATER — Gladewater ISD is moving forward with a series of major upgrades after voters approved the district’s $8.1 million bond during Saturday’s municipal election. The district was one of nine across the region where voters said “yes” to new school funding. A significant portion of the bond will go toward campus safety, including installing keyless entry systems at every school. The district will also purchase new school buses equipped with seat belts, thereby improving student transportation safety.

Another major focus of the bond is strengthening the district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, an investment aimed at preparing the future workforce of East Texas. Superintendent Rae Ann Patty said the upgrades will ensure students are learning on equipment that reflects real?world industry standards.

Work will begin this summer, starting with HVAC system upgrades and the purchase of new buses. Most construction and classroom improvements are expected to be completed during the 2027–2028 school year.

The bond marks a significant step forward for Gladewater ISD as it works to enhance safety, modernize learning spaces, and expand opportunities for students across the district.