Uniting Two Historic Campuses into One Modern Elementary School with Accountability and Oversight | David E. Smith Elementary

Friends Consulting Group (FCG) managed the construction of a new elementary school for Birdville ISD, uniting two historic campuses under one roof. In August 2023, David E. Smith Elementary (opened 1954) and W.T. Francisco Elementary (opened 1959) merged, creating the need for a modern facility. FCG guided this project from the start, handling the construction bid process, managing timelines, and providing the district with consistent updates. By expertly maximizing the district's bond funds, FCG ensured the new campus was completed by March 2025, ready to welcome students as the unified David E. Smith Lions. The new elementary school combining Smith and Francisco elementary schools will continue to carry the name David E. Smith Elementary, with the cafeteria being named Francisco Cafeteria.

Site development and foundation work at David E. Smith Elementary consolidation project.
Structural framing underway at David E. Smith Elementary replacement campus in Birdville ISD.
Nearing completion view of David E. Smith Elementary new campus in Birdville ISD.
Construction progress at new David E. Smith Elementary in Birdville ISD managed by Friends Consulting Group.
Modern elementary classroom construction at David E. Smith Elementary under bond program oversight.
Exterior construction of unified David E. Smith Elementary school completed in March 2025.
Birdville ISD bond-funded elementary school construction uniting Smith and Francisco campuses.
Completed exterior of David E. Smith Elementary ready to welcome unified Smith Lions students.

Services Provided for Smith Elementary School

Program Management

Friends Consulting Group served as the district and taxpayer advocate during the construction of the new David E. Smith Elementary in Birdville ISD.

Following the merger of David E. Smith Elementary (opened 1954) and W.T. Francisco Elementary (opened 1959) in August 2023, the district required a modern campus to unite students, staff, and community under one roof.

Through Program Management, FCG provided:

  • Leadership of the competitive construction bid process

  • Contractor coordination and procurement oversight

  • Schedule management from groundbreaking through completion

  • Budget monitoring to maximize voter-approved bond funds

  • Ongoing reporting and updates to district leadership

The new campus was completed in March 2025, ensuring students were welcomed into a unified and future-ready learning environment.

Facilities Planning & Site Improvement Oversight

Merging two historic campuses into one facility requires more than new construction. It requires thoughtful planning to support enrollment growth, community identity, and long-term operational efficiency.

Under FCG’s oversight, the project delivered:

  • A modern elementary school designed for unified campus operations

  • Updated safety, security, and technology infrastructure

  • Efficient classroom layouts and shared learning spaces

  • Preservation of community legacy through continued naming of David E. Smith Elementary

  • Recognition of W.T. Francisco’s history through the naming of the Francisco Cafeteria

By aligning facilities planning with district goals, FCG ensured the new campus honors tradition while supporting future student success.

Why This Project Matters for Birdville ISD

Campus consolidation can create operational strain, emotional transition, and heightened public scrutiny. Without experienced oversight, districts risk schedule delays, budget pressure, and community concern.

Through disciplined program management and bond accountability, Friends Consulting Group helped Birdville ISD:

  • Deliver the new campus on schedule

  • Protect taxpayer investment

  • Maintain transparency throughout construction

  • Support a smooth transition for students and staff

David E. Smith Elementary represents another successful Birdville ISD project managed by FCG, reinforcing continued district trust across multiple bond initiatives.