FHS won big in March after sending 10  Robotics teams to State. Teams 75442A. 75442X, 75442N, 75442W and 75442R were able to secure seven awards and three banners at the State competition in 2024. Courtesy art

Farmersville ISD experienced a transformative year in 2024, marked by notable achievements, strategic planning and milestones that reflected the district’s growth and commitment to its students and community. 

From the passing of a major bond package to enhancements in facilities and programs, here’s a look back at the year’s highlights.

In January, Farmersville ISD began the year with a focus on fresh food initiatives, leveraging an $85,000 Local Food for Schools Grant from the Texas Department of Agriculture. The funds, awarded in late 2023, allowed the district to source locally grown fruits, vegetables, and whole meat products, enhancing meal quality for students.

By February, planning for future growth took center stage. Trustees called for a $98 million school bond election slated for May, addressing projected enrollment increases from 2,260 students in January to an estimated 3,611 by the 2027-28 school year. Superintendent Micheal French emphasized the proactive approach, noting, “Our goal has always been to be ahead of growth and not behind it.” 

According to district representatives, if the bond passed, the new tax rate would be $1.2417, which is lower than the voter-approved $1.39 in 2021. 

March brought celebrations of student achievements, with Farmersville High School excelling in numerous arenas. Cheer teams earned national recognition and three band students secured spots in the elite All-State Band. Meanwhile, the robotics team showcased its talent with a second-place finish at UIL competitions. Trustees also adopted the 2024-25 school calendar, maintaining the popular Tuesday-to-Friday schedule, and renewed the district’s banking contract for another two years.

April marked a significant investment in career and technical education, as Farmersville ISD was awarded a $330,362 Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grant. The funds expanded the Farmersville Engineering Academy, equipping students with cutting-edge technology to prepare them for high-demand industries.

“This gives our students access and experience working with bleeding-edge technology,” said Tad Myers, director of CTE and special projects.

In May, voters approved the $98 million bond package, with over 66% voting in favor. The measure included plans for a new elementary school, bolstered by a generous land donation in the Lakehaven development. 

“We are very pleased with the confidence our citizens put in us,” French said after the election. The month concluded with the graduation of 158 students from Farmersville High School, celebrated at the CUTX Event Center.

June saw trustees approving the 2024-25 budget, which included new hires for special education and transportation, reflecting the district’s commitment to serving its growing student population. Although the tax rate increased slightly, it remained 15 cents lower than the voter-approved rate in 2021.

Following a quiet July, August saw swift action as trustees finalized the sale of bonds authorized by the May election. French highlighted the district’s strong Aa3 credit rating, a rarity for fast-growing districts, which he attributed to proactive debt management. The board also approved the sale of unused district property and set the 2024 tax rate.

September was a celebratory month as the district unveiled its new facilities at Farmersville High School. The ribbon-cutting event highlighted upgrades like a new band hall, gymnasium, and counseling center, alongside state-of-the-art technology labs. Community members toured the spaces, which represent a significant investment in both academics and extracurricular activities.

In October, the district received a Superior rating on the annual Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST) assessment, scoring 98 out of 100 points. This financial stewardship enabled the district to approve a $750 bonus for all employees, payable in both the fall and spring semesters.

November concluded the year with the renewal of Superintendent Micheal French’s contract through 2028, ensuring stable leadership amid continued growth. During the month’s meeting, the district also highlighted its increasing diversity, with students speaking languages from Farsi to Russian and participating in robust bilingual and English as a Second Language programs. Assistant Superintendent Micah Taylor reflected on the district’s evolving demographics, saying, “The diversity in our student population continues to expand as we experience growth in the community.”

Farmersville ISD’s accomplishments in 2024 showcase a district committed to growth, innovation, and excellence, laying a strong foundation for the years ahead.

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