Facility Advisory Committee

Dedicated to excellence in education, nearly 50 district stakeholders served on the Lone Oak ISD Facility Advisory Committee in Fall 2021. This group was tasked with helping to identify potential needs, as well as making a recommendation to the Board of Trustees regarding a future bond election. The committee met throughout July, kicking off with an introduction activity. Members first shared their connection to LOISD and then one reason they are proud to be a buffalo. While connections ranged from families with generations of Lone Oak graduates to newer teachers to elected officials, everyone shared the same points of pride: a close-knit community where everyone knows and supports each other.

In addition to introductions, committee members also received the opportunity to tour district facilities, review demographic data, learn about school finance and LOISD’s historical tax rate, and speak with administration about academic focus and long-range plans. In a culminating activity, the group prioritized needs that were identified and ranked them to determine which were critical. All members expressed a desire for Lone Oak students to be able to explore their passions and to graduate prepared for college, careers, and/or the military. They also wanted district facilities and offerings to be competitive with LOISD’s neighbors. This would not only benefit students but also help recruit quality teachers and staff.

On Aug. 2, the Facility Advisory Committee recommended that the Board of Trustees call a November 2021 bond election for $45 million. Proposed projects would include: 

• Renovate and add classrooms and labs
• Expand band hall and career and technical education spaces
• Improve campus safety and security
• Address ADA compliance
• Reduce overcrowding in gym, locker room, and weight room areas
• Prepare for future enrollment growth

“Voices from all across the community came together to determine what was best for our students, and we feel that a bond is necessary,” said committee member Eric Ketchum. “The proposed projects will provide the needed facilities for our students to become academic, fine arts, and athletic leaders not only in our area but throughout our state”. 

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