State of the District: Corpus Christi ISD touts progress at fundraising luncheon
Corpus Christi ISD Superintendent Roland Hernandez outlined future and ongoing construction projects during the annual State of the District luncheon on Tuesday, including plans for the old Carroll High School.
The event, during which community supporters learn about happenings in the district, serves as a fundraiser for the Corpus Christi Education Foundation.
On Tuesday, $147,000 was raised, foundation Chair Gina Price announced during the event. Over the past year, the foundation distributed $250,000 in classroom grants to teachers and programs across the district.
Another fundraiser, the foundation's 5K run, is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023.
"While we continue to move forward in achieving our goal of improving student outcomes, the Corpus Christi Education Foundation remains a valued partner," CCISD board of trustees President Janie Bell said. "Their financial support helps students attend college and the teachers to bring fun and exciting activities to the classroom."
Bell also touted district accomplishments from the year, including renovations at the Early Childhood Development Center and the opening of the new Carroll High School.
In his remarks, Hernandez outlined progress in the district, including campus improvements and academic performance. Interspersed throughout were student performances by singers from Barnes Elementary School, Moody High School's Trojanettes and the cast of "Shrek Jr. The Musical."
Bond projects and construction
A new Carroll High School opened to students this year. Hernandez announced a new use for the old Carroll campus.
The building will be repurposed to house expanded career and technical education programs, as well as district professional development and training programs.
"We see this as a unique opportunity to bring in additional CTE programs to the area to support our local industries, and we look forward to sharing more details," Hernandez said.
Hernandez reminded the audience that three elementary schools are currently under construction in the district.
Other recent projects include a new press box at Miller High School's Buc Stadium and kitchen improvements at the Mary Grett Transition Center.
In November, the district will ask voters to approve a $220 million bond to build a new southeast middle school, replace Hamlin Middle School, expand Allen Elementary School, add second gymnasiums to Adkins and Driscoll middle schools, and update playgrounds and marquees.
"Our bond program is very intentional," Hernandez said. "While our district's needs are many, we prioritize those needs and we are always mindful of what we're asking for from our community."
School progress
Last year, the district maintained a B rating from the Texas Education Agency, Hernandez said, with several schools earning A ratings and Windsor Park and Woodlawn elementary schools earning many distinctions.
Eight CCISD schools were recognized as Capturing Kids' Hearts National Showcase schools, based on improvements in academics and attendance, positive school cultures and teacher training: Mireles, Galvan, Los Encinos, Jones and Menger elementary schools; Haas Middle School; and the Mary Grett Transition Center.
Last year, 2,400 students graduated from Corpus Christi ISD schools, earning more than $20 million in scholarships.
"Their accomplishments will have an exponential positive impact on this community," Hernandez said. "This was a special group of students. The pandemic significantly impacted their high school experience, yet they not only persevered, they excelled."
More:Bond projects have transformed Corpus Christi ISD since 2008. Here's where the money has gone.
More: Corpus Christi ISD received its state scorecards. What's next for improvement?
This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Here's why Corpus Christi ISD touts progress at State of the District
