Voters Approve Both Bond and VATRE Measures for Brenham ISD
Community support unlocks $39 million in facility improvements and $2.45 million in annual local funding
Brenham ISD extends its sincere thanks to the voters, Board of Trustees, and Strategic Planning Committee whose dedication, collaboration, and belief in public education made this moment possible. The passage of both Proposition A (Bond) and Measure A (VATRE) reflects a powerful investment in the future of our students, staff, and schools.
Proposition A will provide $39 million in capital improvements for schools across the district — without increasing the tax rate. These funds will support essential upgrades to aging infrastructure, safety improvements, and modernization efforts identified by the Strategic Planning Committee (SPC), a diverse group of community members, parents, staff, and students who worked together to assess districtwide needs.
Measure A, the Voter-Approved Tax Rate Election (VATRE), will generate approximately $2.45 million annually in additional local funding. These funds are not subject to recapture and will remain entirely in Brenham ISD to support teacher compensation, staff stipends, classroom resources, and student programs.
“This vote is a powerful reflection of what makes Brenham special, the willingness to come together for something bigger than ourselves,” said Superintendent Clay Gillentine. “Our Board called for this election with transparency and purpose. Our Strategic Planning Committee worked tirelessly to bring forward the right recommendations. And our staff, families, and community showed up, not just at the polls, but in thoughtful conversations, hard questions, and genuine care for our schools.”
This success follows months of community engagement, data review, public forums, and strategic planning. The district remains committed to transparency and continued communication as implementation begins. The Strategic Planning Committee will also continue its important work in guiding future long-term needs, including potential solutions for Brenham Junior High and Career & Technical Education programming.
“The work isn’t done — in fact, this is just the beginning,” Gillentine added. “We are committed to keeping the community informed as projects unfold, and our Strategic Planning Committee will continue its work to guide future needs, including long-term solutions for Brenham Junior High and Career & Technical Education.”
Brenham ISD is deeply grateful to every individual who participated in this election — whether by voting, attending meetings, asking questions, or sharing factual information. This outcome is a testament to what can be achieved when a community unites around a common goal.
For additional information and ongoing updates on project timelines and next steps, visit:
www.brenhamisd.net/bond.home