Voter-approved New Caney ISD bond includes $110 million high school (Source: Houston Chronicle)
By Melani Feuk
A $200 million New Caney ISD bond passed with 53.38 percent approval.
“Bonds are vehicles to provide facilities for students and we’re very grateful for the community stepping forward and passing this bond and ensuring our students will have quality facilities in the near future,” said Kenn Franklin, superintendent of New Caney ISD.
After polls closed May 5, the Montgomery County Elections webpage showed 679 votes were cast in favor, whereas 593 votes were cast in opposition to the bond.
“I think overall, the people were supportive of what we’re doing,” Franklin said.
The district’s 2016 PASA report indicates New Caney ISD may grow by anywhere from 7,000 to 10,000 students. Currently, there are approximately 15,000 students in New Caney ISD.
The growth New Caney ISD experienced between 2011 and 2016 put the district in the first place as far as the percentage growth in enrollment for the greater Houston area, according to a PASA demographic report released June 2016, which showed New Caney ISD grew nearly 37 percent during those five years.
These bond projects were among those identified by a facility assessment by Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam, Inc. (LAN).
“The district asked us to do a long-term assessment that would serve as a roadmap for years to come,” said Kyle LeBlanc, a professional engineer with LAN. “We evaluated more than 50 facilities and analyzed tons of data to determine the district’s priorities and needs. By following a methodical approach, we were also able to communicate transparently with the community. This bond program will provide New Caney’s students the environment and infrastructure needed to succeed in the 21st century.”
