Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Rice CISD need a bond? 

The proposed bond program is intended to address aging elementary facilities, improve safety and security, and respond to the challenges of operating and maintaining four separate elementary campuses. After carefully reviewing Rice CISD’s facility conditions, enrollment trends, operational costs, and long-term needs, the Community Bond Advisory Committee(CBAC) recommended investments that would best support the future of the District while responsibly using taxpayer resources. The proposed bond program would replace aging elementary facilities with a new consolidated elementary school, enhance safety and security, improve operational efficiency, and expand the District’s bus fleet, helping provide modern learning environments that support student success for years to come.

What is in the Bond package?

The Board of Trustees have called for a $55 million bond program to include the construction of a new 650-studentelementary campus that would consolidate Rice CISD’s four existing elementary schools into a single modern facility. Thepackage also identifies safety and security improvements at Rice CISD High School, renovations to existing facilities and the purchase of additional buses to support student transportation needs across the district.

How were the facility needs for this bond program determined?

The facility needs included in this bond program were identified through a planning process that began with a review of district enrollment trends, demographic information, and facility assessments conducted by the Texas Association ofSchool Boards (TASB). Rice CISD then formed a Community Bond Advisory Committee (CBAC) made up of community members, school board members, district staff, and the Superintendent. The committee reviewed the information, discussed the District’s needs and priorities, and ultimately recommended the projects included in the proposed bond

package.

When will the new projects/schools/renovations be open/completed?

If the community approves the bond program on November 3, the design process will begin immediately and will continue through 2027. The new Elementary School construction phase would begin in 2028 in anticipation of a Fall of 2029 opening. The goal of the district is to have all projects completed by Fall of 2029.

How can the bond funds be used?

Bond funds may be used for new construction, renovations, purchase of land, technology, and buses. These funds may not be used for salaries, supplies, fuel or other day-to-day District expenses.

How will the bond package affect my taxes?

If approved, the bond program is estimated to increase the District’s tax rate by approximately $0.298 per $100 of taxable value, phased in over several years. For the Median Household at Rice CISD valued at $151,240* with a Homestead Exception, the estimated tax impact is approximately $2.79 per month.

If I'm over 65, how will this Bond package affect my taxes?

Homeowners with an over-65 homestead exemption will not see an increase in their school district tax rates if their tax bills were frozen when they turned 65 (unless new improvements are made to the home). To have property tax rates frozen, an application must be made to the county appraisal district.

What's going to happen to the other schools?

The proposed bond program would consolidate Rice CISD’s four elementary schools into one new campus, addressing declining enrollment and the high cost of maintaining aging facilities. If the bond is approved, all students would move to the new school, and the District would determine future uses for the existing campuses. Consolidation is expected to save the District approximately $1 million annually while providing students with a safe, modern learning environment.

Will students be transported to the new schools?

Yes. Rice CISD will continue to provide student transportation. The proposed bond program includes funding to expand the District’s bus fleet to help meet transportation needs and support students attending the new elementary school. Rice CISD remains committed to helping ensure students have safe and reliable transportation to and from school.

What if the Bond doesn't pass?

If the bond does not pass, Rice CISD will still need to address challenges related to aging elementary schools, declining enrollment, and the cost of maintaining underutilized campuses. The District may need to consider the consolidation of elementary campuses to manage facility needs and operating costs in the future. The proposed bond would allow the District to address these challenges through a new single elementary school designed to provide a modern, safe, and efficient learning environment for all students.

Who is qualified to vote in this Bond election?

All registered voters who live within Rice CISD are eligible to vote in this election. Early Voting begins October 19. The general election date is November 3.

When and where can I vote?

All registered voters who live within the District are eligible to vote in this election at the following locations:

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF ALL POLLING LOCATIONS VISIT

https://www.co.colorado.tx.us/page/colorado.Elections

https://www.ricecisd.org

2026

BOND

RICE CONSOLIDATED INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

NADA COMMUNITY CENTER - ST. MARY’S | 7825 Hwy 71, Nada, TX 77442

FRELSBURG VFD (FRELSBURG COMMUNITY) | 1669 FM 109, New Ulm, TX 78950

COLORADO COUNTY ELECTION CENTER | 1117 Travis Street, Columbus, TX 78934

EAGLE LAKE COMMUNITY CENTER | 100 N. Walnut, Eagle Lake, TX 77434

WEIMAR CITY HALL | 106 E. Main St., Weimar, TX 78934