AISD

Scope of Work: 

Provided Research, Message Development, Stakeholder Outreach and Public Involvement Services.

Overview:

In May 2004, the Austin Independent School District (AISD) Board of Trustees voted to place six bond propositions on the ballot for a September 2004 election. Two of the propositions were controversial. One asked for funding for athletic facility improvements and a new performing arts center. The other asked for funds to build a new school in southwest Austin near the aquifer recharge zone. Rifeline was hired by the Political Action Committee (PAC) to assist with the bond campaign. Voters passed all six bond propositions and AISD received $520 million for improvements.

In December 2004, Rifeline was hired by AISD to assist with implementation of the 2004 bond program. Rifeline assisted with:

• Developing key messages
• Coordinating and facilitating meetings
• Preparing materials for Board Updates
• Developing communications tools
• Coordinating community meetings
• Clarifying construction reports for the general public

In 2008, Rifeline was again asked by the PAC to assist with two additional campaigns. During the May election, voters approved all three bond propositions resulting in a $344 million package that allowed the district to achieve legislative requirements, fund new investments in technology, and construct a district-wide performing arts center. During a November tax ratification election, voters approved giving teachers a 3% pay raise. 

In February 2013, Vote 4 Our Kids PAC contacted Rifeline to assist with passage of an $892 million bond package. In May, voters approved two of the four propositions resulting in $489.7 million to support technology, transportation, and energy conservation, and address renovations and improvements at facilities across the district.