A 27-year-old high school is undergoing a massive renovation to improve its functionality and appearance. Over the course of three summers and four semesters, the school is set to receive major upgrades, making the learning environment more modern, comfortable, and efficient. With construction well underway, students and teachers are adapting to the temporary changes while looking forward to the final results.
A Multi-Phase Project Funded by Leander ISD Bond
The renovation project began in the summer of 2024, led by Bartlett Cocke, a well-known construction company. The funding comes from the 2023 Leander ISD Bond, which was approved on May 8, 2023. The goal is to update the aging school building while ensuring it meets the needs of current and future students.
Some of the key upgrades include:
New lighting, flooring, and carpets
Fresh paint and modern furniture
Updated heating and air conditioning system
More efficient classroom spaces
According to Principal John Sloan, school districts do not have direct funding for new buildings and renovations. Instead, they rely on community-approved bonds to finance major projects. As new schools are built, existing ones must also be upgraded, ensuring that all students have access to quality facilities.
Challenges of Teaching in Portable Classrooms
During the first phase of construction, English classrooms were temporarily relocated to portable buildings placed in the school parking lot. While these portables allowed classes to continue, they also posed several logistical challenges for both teachers and students.
Principal Sloan explained the difficulties of using portables:
Reduced parking space due to portable buildings
Complicated student movement between classrooms
No built-in card readers at first, making access harder
Teachers needing to pack and move materials multiple times
Despite the challenges, some teachers and students found positives in the experience.
Kristin Burke, an AP Language and Composition and English IV teacher, noted that the move forced her to declutter years’ worth of files, which was refreshing. She also enjoyed the outdoor experience between classes. However, she admitted that the lack of running water and bathrooms was a downside.
Freshman Tucker Johnson had a positive experience with the portable classrooms, saying:
“With the portables, it’s not that bad. It’s just a little walking, and honestly, it’s nice because it’s different from walking in the same hallways every day.”
Improvements in the Newly Renovated English Hall
By the end of the first semester, the English hall renovations were completed, allowing teachers and students to move back into the main building.
Kristin Burke shared her excitement about the upgraded classroom spaces, highlighting:
New carpets and fresh paint
Removal of bulky cabinets to create more space
New tables for better student collaboration
The modern look and feel of the renovated hall have been well-received, making the learning environment more comfortable and efficient.
Ongoing Construction and Future Plans
As of now, renovations are progressing as planned, with the math hall currently under construction. The entire project is expected to be fully completed by the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year.
While the physical appearance of the school is changing, Principal Sloan emphasized that the school’s core vision remains the same—to create an engaging and inspiring learning environment for students.
“The new facility enhances that experience and makes it even better,” Sloan said.
As the construction moves forward, students, teachers, and staff eagerly anticipate a more modern, spacious, and well-equipped school that will serve generations to come.
