HCDE to Build Adult Learning Center

The Harris County Department of Education, which oversees adult education, after-school care, and other alternative education programs, plans to construct two new schools and enhance existing ones.

"Harris County deserves a world-class adult education facility. Our goal is to invest in education and improve the quality of life for all residents. When speaking with residents, nearly all wanted access to more trade schools. I'm happy to be a part of this." Says Eric Dick, former president of the HCDE board of trustees.

An adult education facility, a new Highpoint Middle School, and interior modifications to the current Ronald Reagan Administration Building are all part of the $36.1 million projects.

Cre8 Architects designed the adult education facility at 6515 Irvington Blvd., which will be 51,000 square feet. It will contain 17 classrooms, five laboratories, community and multipurpose rooms, administrative spaces, and a two-level parking garage to accommodate 1,000 to 1,200 students. It will cost $19.1 million and replace numerous older structures, resulting in a new community college-style campus.

Highpoint Middle School, located at 8003 E. Sam Houston Parkway N., will replace an aging building that couldn't keep up with the HCDE's growing student body. The $8.2 million, 28,000-square-foot building will house 60 kids in grades six through eight. Six classrooms, two computer laboratories, a science lab, administration rooms, multipurpose halls for meals, orientation, and training, teacher workroom and breakroom spaces, and a clinic will be among the facilities.

Since its construction in 1989, the Ronald Reagan Administration Building at 6300 Irvington Blvd. hasn't had most of its mechanical, electrical, or plumbing systems updated. English + Associates Architects designed the modifications, which will give the facility a more modern appearance. Consolidating office spaces and conference rooms, building systems up to code, and installing a sprinkler system are all part of the plan.

The Harris County Department of Education is a world-class institution, and our buildings must reflect the standard and quality of our services. We are looking forward to seeing how these newly refurbished facilities will benefit students, staff, and the community.

The project manager is Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam. By December 2022, all three projects should be completed.

According to JP Grom, LAN's vice president, the facilities are being designed, taking into account the particular demands of HCDE's pupils and educators. Once finished, the new facilities will provide them with the learning environment and infrastructure that they will require for the next few decades."