SPRING, Texas – Westfield High School’s Ninth Grade Center in the Spring Independent School District opened it’s doors Tuesday, a day that has been a year-and-a-half in the making.
“The students came in ready to go,” said Cecily Parker, ninth-grade lead principal. “The staff came in bright and early, eager to get into the new building. We’re all excited about the transition.”
Ninth graders have been preparing since the start of the school year to move into their new home away from home.
“It’s been a long journey to get here but we’re glad we’re here,” Parker said.
Money from Spring ISD’s $330 million bond program, which voters approved in 2016, was used to design and renovate the building. Educators said the school district spared no expense.
“Spring ISD did not hold back,” Parker said. “They gave us the ‘wow’ factor.”
“The building beats my expectations with what I thought could actually happen with this space,” said David Mason Jr., Westfield High School and Ninth Grade Center Principal.
Features include a dance studio, media center, an open concept dining area, flexible furniture, brand new classroom equipment and the opportunity to extend learning outside of the classroom. Technology upgrades include 80-inch screens for the teachers to use, new laptops, chrome books and desktop computers along with wi-fi.
Since high schools in the district are so big, educators said this center is a great way to make sure the transition to high school for freshmen is easier while helping them build a foundation for success.
“It’s a great start for students,” Mason said. “Kids who typically do well in ninth grade do well throughout high school.”
The school will be hosting a virtual town hall soon to introduce the new center and ensure a smooth transition for students and parents.
This is the third ninth-grade center of its kind in Spring ISD.