Spring ISD Upgrades Elementary School Playgrounds Using Bond Interest Income Funds
Elementary students across Spring Independent School District are enjoying the outdoors more than ever, thanks to a wave of playground upgrades funded through bond interest income—a strategic use of non-earmarked resources from the 2022 Bond Program. These enhancements are transforming play areas into safer, more inclusive, and engaging spaces that reflect the district’s ongoing commitment to student well-being.
New Equipment Reflects Commitment to Whole-Child Development
From vibrant play structures and adaptive swings to shaded canopies and new turf, the upgrades aim to support both the physical and emotional health of Spring ISD students. Burchett Elementary, one of the first campuses to see improvements, now boasts a revitalized play area that has quickly become a favorite among students and teachers alike.
“The playground is amazing and the kids love it,” said Burchett Elementary first grade teacher Sonny Tomlin. “It’s very updated from the other one and we were anticipating it. We have shade and the kids can play and it’s not near as hot.”
Mark Miranda, Spring ISD Chief Operations Officer, emphasized the broader impact of the upgrades. “Our students deserve the very best, and these new playgrounds are a testament to our community’s investment in their well-being,” he said. “Play is an essential part of a child’s development, and these new facilities will provide safe and inclusive spaces for all our students to enjoy.”
Bond 2022: A Foundation for Campus Enhancements
While the 2022 Bond Program did not initially allocate funds for playground improvements, its financial structure made these updates possible. Approved by voters in November 2022, the $850 million bond was the largest in Spring ISD history and focused on five key areas: facilities, safety and security, technology, transportation, and programmatic enhancements. Major projects included rebuilding three aging elementary schools, constructing a new Spring Early College Academy, and upgrading campus security and technology infrastructure.
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As bond funds were disbursed, unspent portions generated bond interest income—funds earned while awaiting expenditure. These interest-bearing accounts allowed the district to reinvest the earnings into supplemental initiatives, such as playground renovations, that were not part of the original bond scope but align with its mission of enhancing student experiences.
Responsible Resource Management Unlocks Additional Improvements
Bond interest income is a form of passive revenue that can be strategically redirected based on district needs, pending compliance with state laws and bond covenants. Spring ISD’s choice to use this funding for playground enhancements demonstrates both fiscal responsibility and a student-centered focus.
“These projects wouldn’t be possible without the ongoing support of our community and the careful management of district resources,” a district statement noted. As more interest income becomes available, Spring ISD plans to continue updating playgrounds across additional elementary campuses, ensuring equitable access to quality outdoor spaces districtwide.
Looking Ahead
The district’s playground transformation efforts underscore a larger vision: investing not only in buildings and books, but also in the daily moments that shape childhood development and school culture.
As Spring ISD moves forward with implementing its 2022 Bond projects, the added value of bond interest income provides a meaningful opportunity to enhance areas that directly impact student joy and safety.
Residents and families can stay up to date with progress and future playground improvements by visiting springisd.org/page/2022-bond-program.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
