At the May 20 Midway ISD Board of Trustees meeting, district leaders provided an update on the work of the citizen-led Facility Study Committee—marking a critical step toward a potential bond recommendation for the November 2025 election.
Over the past five months, 49 community members representing a broad cross-section of Midway stakeholders have invested more than 500 collective hours in the study of the district’s long-term facility needs. Their work has been guided by a clear mission: to evaluate aging infrastructure, growing enrollment, and the financial strategies needed to support the future of Midway ISD.
“These volunteers have taken on an enormous task and done it with a deep sense of service,” said Superintendent Dr. Chris Allen. “They’ve asked tough questions, engaged in honest dialogue, and stayed focused on what’s best for students—not just today, but for years to come.”
The committee, chaired by Midway parent and local businessman Jordan Barry, established three priorities early in the process: make space for growth, ensure quality facilities, and relieve pressure on the district’s annual operating budget. To that end, they reviewed detailed reports on facility conditions, utilization, demographic growth, and financial capacity. Facility audits revealed some campuses scoring as high as 23-40% on the Facility Condition Index, with further deterioration expected over the next five years.
Zonda Education, the district’s demographer, projected steady enrollment increases—particularly at the elementary level—while Huckabee Architects and Alpha Facility Solutions analyzed functional building capacities and deferred maintenance needs. The committee also reviewed long-term funding options, including how a bond could alleviate ongoing strain on Maintenance & Operations budgets.
Among the key projects under consideration: a replacement Speegleville Elementary School, expansions or renovations at several other campuses, capital improvements for fine arts and athletics, and upgrades to HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofs, and technology infrastructure. The total cost for projects under review is estimated at $175.3 million—with no tax rate increase anticipated.
“The data clearly shows our facilities are under strain,” said Board President Pete Rusek. “This committee has done an outstanding job analyzing not just what’s needed now, but how to set us up for success 10, 20, even 30 years from now. Their work honors our district’s legacy of thoughtful planning and community engagement.”
Dr. Allen noted that public feedback continues to shape the committee’s work. A district-wide community survey—open through May 20—has gathered public input on potential projects and funding strategies. The committee will reconvene virtually on June 5 to analyze survey results and make final adjustments to its recommendation before formally presenting it to the Board on June 17.
“From the start, this process has prioritized transparency, data, and community voice,” Rusek added. “Whatever recommendation comes forward, I have full confidence that it reflects the values and vision of Midway ISD.”
All meeting materials and updates are available on the district’s website at https://www.midwayisd.org/facilities-needs-assessment.
