Dumas ISD prepares to open two new campuses thanks to $107 million bond

DUMAS, Texas (KVII) — The Dumas Independent School District is preparing to finally open two new campuses funded by the passage of a $107 million bond in 2019.

The new elementary campuses will feature a safer learning environment for students and a work environment for teachers and staff.

“It’s been a real chore trying to get those in place but things are starting to come together,” said Monty Hysinger, Superintendent of Dumas ISD.

When the bell rings signaling the start of the next school year in August, Dumas ISD will have two new campuses, Dumas South and Cactus Elementary will be online for students in Pre-K through 4th grade.

Delays in getting the new campuses open can be attributed to several factors.

“Time delays and materials at the time,” said Hysinger. “Of course, we had to battle through the covid process and the supply chain but things are on track now to get them going and looking forward to the new campuses.”

The district is seeing a sizeable increase in enrollment. Hysinger tells ABC 7 News they’ve had a recent gain of around 125 students.

The district recently purchased property near the high school and is planning to build a career and tech center where students can be trained in many trade professions that need employees.

“College isn’t for everybody and to provide a skillset for our students when they leave us at high school will be helpful,” said Stan Stroebel, assistant superintendent of personnel. “They can go right into the workforce or be productive members and it will be a great benefit for our community and the surrounding area.”

Dumas ISD is hopeful to have the new career and tech center up and running no later than the start of the 2026 school year.

The plan is to have at least five or six programs available for students who are choosing to enter the workforce following graduation and not apply for college or enter a branch of the United States military.