On Wednesday afternoon, High Island Independent School District marked a major milestone with a celebratory groundbreaking for a new Elementary and High School campus. The event signaled the beginning of a long awaited project made possible by a $27.9 million bond issue approved by voters in May.
The entire student body took part in the occasion, creating a unified visual as every student wore the same Cardinal Red shirt to commemorate the day. The sense of pride was unmistakable as students, teachers, staff, and community members gathered on the site that will soon become the heart of the district’s future.
Superintendent Dr. David Walker presided over the ceremony and welcomed a large group of invited guests, including local dignitaries, state and county government representatives, business leaders, and community organizations. In his remarks, Dr. Walker thanked the community for its trust and support and took time to recognize the Board of Trustees for their dedication and commitment to the district.
Dr. Walker emphasized that the new campus will provide students with brand new, modern, technologically advanced, and safe facilities designed to support learning for decades to come. Construction is expected to be completed by August 2027.
Adding a meaningful perspective, PTO President David Wilson noted the lasting impact the project will have on current students. He shared that today’s sophomores will be the first graduating class to walk the stage from the new building, while current seventh graders will be the first class to experience all four years of high school in the new campus.
The ceremonial highlight came as Superintendent Walker, members of the Board of Trustees, and the design team picked up golden shovels and officially turned over the dirt. Cheers followed moments later when the cheerleading squad launched confetti cannons into the air, bringing energy and excitement to the celebration.
The afternoon concluded with students and teachers gathering in the cafeteria, where everyone was treated to cookies and refreshments, a fitting end to a day filled with optimism and school spirit.
