Betsy Ross ElementaryBetsy Ross ElementaryBetsy Ross Elementary

Houston, TX
All Play Representative: Jonathan McJunkin

Project Name - Betsy Ross Elementary Elementary

Project Manager (Gamma Construction) - Spencer Bennett
Houston Independent School District (Owner)
Gensler (Architect Firm) - Mark Sullivan


While Rebuild 2002 successfully addressed the needs of about one-third of HISD’s schools, the needs at many of the remaining schools and facilities were still prevalent.  The average age of HISD schools is 45 years.   Consequently, in April 2002, a new technical assessment of the remaining schools and support facilities that were not included in the Rebuild 2002, bond program was conducted. The study identified more than $1 billion of capital renovation needs.  As in the previous program, schools with the greatest needs were given the highest priority.  Renovations at some schools would have been so extensive such that it was more economical to replace them with new buildings.  Voters of the Houston Independent School District agreed and approved the passage of an $808.6 million bond package.

The Rebuild HISD program was credited for:

  • building five new schools
  • building five early childhood centers
  • replacing 22 aging schools
  • renovating 32 schools
  • expanding 11 existing schools
  • upgrading 55 gymnasiums
  • building a new bus service facility
  • majority of elementary schools received new playground equipment and covered structures

Construction activities were completed after four years. Students continue to reap the benefits of the improved learning environments thanks to the success of the Rebuild HISD program. The source of funds used by the Rebuild HISD program included bond proceeds and investment earning.