Plano ISD leaders honored the legacy of retired Superintendent Sara Bonser and Coordinator for Student Services James Thomas III on Friday, August 22, 2025.
The district held a special ribbon-cutting and building dedication for the Bonser-Thomas Welcome and Enrollment Center. The center honors Mrs. Bonser, whose vision inspired the center, and Mr. Thomas, who embodies the heart of our work in the district. Together, they have more than 75 years of service to Plano ISD.
“In Plano ISD, dedication to caring is not just a phrase, it is how this district, this community, takes care of its children,” said Mrs. Bonser. “And so here we are, in a place where families will be embraced by the school district and be supported with wraparound services that help their children become ready to learn.”
Mr. Thomas expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the past and present Boards of Trustees, district leaders and his colleagues for this distinguished recognition. “This is an amazing honor,” said Mr. Thomas. “I have been blessed. I can’t thank Sara enough for sharing this with me. We will always be linked together.”
The 11,000 sq. ft. center, located at 6210 Mapleshade Ln. in Dallas, will provide families with enhanced wraparound services in multiple areas to promote student success in an efficient, caring and accessible manner, strengthening family, school and community partnerships. Services will include:
Services will include:
● Student Services (Enrollment, Transfers, Notarization of District Documents)
● Connection to Community Resources and Counseling
● Family Engagement
● Community & Social Services
● Clothes Closet
● Food Pantry
● Families in Transition Support
● Mobile Enrollment/Education Lab
● Health Fairs
● Health & Wellness
● Screening of immunization records for school enrollment
● On-site immunizations for Plano ISD students that qualify
“This center is a true reflection of Sara and James’ belief that every student can succeed when they are given the right support,” said Plano ISD Superintendent Dr. Theresa Williams. “By providing wraparound services, this center ensures that our students and families have the resources they need to thrive so that their educational journey is not only possible, but successful. For many of our students and families, it all begins here.”
“This building is more than just walls and windows; it is a reflection of the values and vision of the leaders we honor today,” said Plano ISD Executive Director for Student and Family Services Dr. Jennifer Miley. “It is a starting point, a bridge and a promise that every family who walks through these doors is part of the Plano ISD community.”
The dedication ceremony was attended by approximately 200 community members, including family members of both namesakes, current and former trustees, as well as city and community leaders.
“It is an honor to call this new space home,” said Plano ISD Welcome & Enrollment Center Director Karina Trotter. “Each day, our team will have the privilege of welcoming families at this center.”
The Bonser-Thomas Welcome & Enrollment Center, opening to the public soon, is the second of its kind in the district. The original center, located at the Bird Center, 1300 19th St. in Plano, was established in 2021.
“It is a privilege to witness the opening of the Bonser-Thomas Welcome & Enrollment Center,” said School Board President Dr. Lauren Tyra. “This is another investment from past and present Plano ISD School Boards into the lives of our students and families, ensuring their prosperity in school and beyond.”