2024-2025 school year, when Athens ISD voters approved a $ 121.5 million bond package with more than 61 % voter support. Though not immediately visible, much work has been done as the district prepares to execute improvements at every grade level and every campus, including a new early childhood center, expanded facilities for early college students, major campus renovations, a new performing arts center, improved traffic flow at Athens Middle School, upgraded Career and Technical Education spaces, and more.
As promised to voters, the district is doing all this without having increased the AISD tax rate. Leading up to the May 2025 bond election, district leadership committed to keeping the debt service tax rate unchanged if the bond
passed; three months after it passed, board members unanimously adopted a total district tax rate identical to the previous fiscal year. The maintenance and operations tax rate remains unchanged at $ 0.6669, while the interest and sinking tax rate also remains unchanged at $ 0.39. AISD’ s tax rate decreased each year from 2019 through 2024, with the last increase occurring in 2016, reflecting years of careful financial planning and responsible stewardship.
Taken together, the accomplishments of this past school year paint a clear picture of where Athens ISD stands today: Students are achieving at high levels, opportunities continue to expand and the community continues to invest in the future of its schools.
The Athens Hornet football team in 2025 tied the best season in program history, with an 11-3 record, and advanced to the Regional Final. They are shown here receiving the area championship trophy from Superintendent Janie Sims.( Photo: Ashley Rojo / AISD)
Greater Athens Magazine | May 2026 | 9