The committee, which is made up of community members representing a cross section of HPISD's citizens, divided into subcommittees to study elementary, intermediate/middle school and high school needs in depth. They presented their findings to the board in January, and we thank them for their extremely thoughtful and thorough research.

I also want to thank Kelly Walker, School Board Facilities Committee Chair, who has tirelessly focused on the study of our school facilities for several years.

The next step for the board is an in-depth analysis of the research, coupled with data from our demographers and architect. The board is taking a careful look at every option available to us. Some of the top issues we will continue to explore include: 

HPHS natatorium: The removal of the natatorium from its current location in the high school campus is still a real possibility, although relocating it to Curtis Park is no longer an option. If the natatorium, which is approximately 50 years old, were to be removed, it would allow for the construction of approximately 24 additional classrooms. It would also give us the option of expanding some of the main hallways in the school, which become very crowded during passing periods. 

We are continuing to search for a new natatorium site, both on district property and

elsewhere. One possible location is the corner of Douglas and Grassmere where the Seay Tennis Center is now. If that site were used for a natatorium, we would consider building a new indoor tennis center on the lot across from the outdoor tennis courts. We are also in talks with Southern Methodist University and the City of University Park regarding possible partnerships and natatorium locations. 

New elementary school: To relieve the overcrowding in our elementary campuses, we are aggressively pursuing the idea of building a new elementary school. The district has been working with Northway Christian Church to purchase 4.6 acres of land on its site, which would be financed through the bond package. Buying the land from the church would provide the district with a unique opportunity, as finding suitable acreage is difficult within the landlocked Park Cities. 

Parking: One of HPISD's greatest strengths is our parental involvement and commitment to volunteering in our schools and attending extracurricular activities. Unfortunately, we just don't have enough parking to accommodate all of our staff, students, parents and visitors. One of the key issues the board will study is adding parking at each of our campuses. Underground parking is an option that we are studying. 

Existing campuses: The trustees are committed to providing exceptional schools with top-notch learning spaces for all of our students. We are weighing all of our options and considering the best approach to alleviating the overcrowding issues that many of our classrooms at every campus currently face. 

The School Board is grateful for every email, phone call and conversation we have had with our community members regarding our facility needs. Each of you brings a unique voice and perspective to our considerations, but one thought is prevalent: our schools are the heart of the community. From a sea of blue and gold at a Friday night game at Highlander Stadium, to a packed Open House campus night, or an exuberant crowd at our recent Centennial Celebration, it's clear that the passion for our schools is as strong as ever.

We will keep you up to date as we continue to strategically and thoughtfully plan for the future.