Just a short time ago we were busy planning for the May 12, 2007, bond election and once again our outstanding patrons voted to support Mesquite ISD students! The $180 million bond package passed by an overwhelming 74 percent.

The continued growth of our district and the aging of our existing facilities offer multiple opportunities for improvements; therefore, $120 million has been allocated for construction and renovations of various facilities around the district. Construction on Mesquite ISD’s 32nd elementary school, Achziger Elementary, was completed this summer.  In addition, a new science wing was added to North Mesquite High School, along with other renovations. Construction is now under way at Shands Elementary and a new Mesquite ISD warehouse.

As we plan our new buildings, additions and renovations, we realize that these facilities fundamentally impact people’s lives and the environment of the planet. In the United States, buildings use one-third of our total energy, two-thirds of our electricity, one-eighth of our water and transform land that provides valuable ecological resources.

In Mesquite ISD our goal is to build and maintain the best possible facilities for our students. In addition, we strive to be good stewards of bond funds and become more environmentally friendly. In recent months, positive progress has been made in our efforts toward energy conservation. Run times and set points for HVAC systems have been closely monitored in all facilities, thus reducing energy consumption. Also, recently a district-wide lighting retrofit was completed that will save almost 10 percent on electricity usage. Currently, a company is in the process of auditing all MISD facilities to assist in conserving more energy dollars.

It is because of the support and conscious efforts of the Mesquite community that we are able to continue to provide quality learning environments for our students. We welcome you to take a moment to track progress throughout the 2007 bond program on our district website.