Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Members of the Memorial Drive Elementary (MDE) School Project Advisory Team recently had an exclusive preview of the new Memorial Drive Elementary.

This preview followed months of collaboration with Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) to conceptualize, develop and refine the project plan for the campus replacement school.

During the tour, MDE Principal Thayer Hutcheson, Elementary Community Superintendent Jennifer Parker, Associate Superintendent for Operations Travis Stanford, Director for Planning and Construction, Geoff Bay, Project Manager Alfonso Montoya and Stantec representatives explored the 94,850-square-foot facility. The tour offered a glimpse of what neighborhood families can expect when school begins on August 15.

PAT members were impressed by the architecture, natural lighting, and views of the art and science patio and outdoor classroom with a covered pavilion. The new facility transformed the previous campus comprised of separate buildings into a connected community under one roof, with the media center as the heart of the campus.

They also noted increased operational efficiencies and safety measures, such as separated traffic flows for parents, buses, and visitors. The planning of ample space for parent pick-up and drop-off to alleviate congestion on Smithdale Road is another appreciated aspect of the project.

“I hope this shows you that your input is valuable,” Stanford said. “You were heard as integral members of this process, and this is a building that will serve as a hub for families in this community for years to come.”

At the end of the tour, Stanford recognized the PAT and commended them for their efforts to inform decisions, raise funds for enhancements, and play a crucial role in the development of the state-of-the-art facility, which can accommodate up to 550 students. A community groundbreaking for the new campus will be held Tuesday, September 24, beginning at 4:00pm.

For a look inside the new MDE, click here.

Visit the 2017 Bond website for a complete look at projects funded by the bond program.