New Ball High School and Natatorium Schematic Design as Approved November 16, 2022
The GISD Facility Planning Committee recommended the replacement of Ball High School. Their recommendation focused on expanding the many programs already offered at Ball HS:
Specialized Small Learning Communities:
- Biomedical Engineering and Medical Professions
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Media Arts and Digital Technology
- STEM
- College Credits
- Industry Certifications
- Collaboration
- 1:1 Technology Initiative
- Student-centered learning
- Library is “hub” of school and is used innovatively
The bond proposal’s replacement of Ball High School will address the many needs identified by the Ball HS Visioning Committee:
- Purposeful areas for student collaboration
- Flexible library spaces to support a variety of learning needs
- Outdoor spaces appropriate for teaching and learning
- Large space for student group presentations
- Appropriate spaces for ROTC
- Strong infrastructure for technology futures
- Special Education drive and conference room
- Dance classroom
- Band hall
- CTE areas that emulate industry
- Flexible spaces throughout to support independent learning
- More lab spaces
- Space for counseling/SEL
The bond provides upgraded and additional educational opportunities for students:
- Connects Ball HS educational programs with local careers
- Expands partnerships with Galveston College, UTMB, and Texas A&M Galveston
- Provides space for students to earn College certifications and training to fill jobs in need on the island
- Provides space in current Ball HS for students wanting to participate in CTE programs
New High School Update
Planning is underway for the new high school. The project architect, PBK, recently facilitated a three-day collaborative charrette to kick off the design process. The charrette included a visioning session, a series of workshops incorporating input from district and community members invited to participate as well as a conceptual design that will serve as the basis for the design of the new facilities.
Stay tuned – we will continue to document the journey toward a new and improved Ball High School every step of the way.
