Spring - Klein Edition | April 2024

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Spring Klein Edition VOLUME 11, ISSUE 1 APRIL 16MAY 14, 2024 A N

2024 Voter Guide

Spring and Klein ISDs saw an increase in students leaving for charter schools and other public school districts over the last decade, according to Texas Education Agency data. Both school districts oer schools of choice—such as SISD’s Springwoods Village Middle School, shown here with students walking its halls—to compete with the rising popularity of charter schools. District budgets tighten as school options grow

COURTESY SPRING ISD

on attendance, making student enrollment an important factor as they face state nancial hurdles. In the last decade, SISD’s enrollment has decreased overall while Klein ISD’s wavered from 2018-20 and is growing again, but at a slower rate than 2012-17.

The resulting exodus of students from public school districts is causing funding challenges for local schools. For scal year 2024-25, Spring ISD is facing a $25 million funding shortfall, which districts ocials said can be attributed, in part, to students choosing alternative schooling options. School districts receive state funding based

BY EMILY LINCKE

In the last decade, parents in the Spring and Klein area have had a rising number of options to educate their children, including new private and charter schools, while acceptance of homeschool- ing has grown as well.

CONTINUED ON 14

Also in this issue

Impacts: Portillo’s to bring Chicago hot dogs to Willowbrook (Page 6)

Election: ESD 11 commissioner candidate Q&As (Page 10)

Transportation: Willowbrook-area FM 1960 work begins (Page 16)

Business: Dragon’s Lair cultivates gaming community (Page 20)

HOUSTON METHODIST LEADING CARE where you need us

Convenient, easy-to-access locations for primary, specialty and emergency care in Northwest Houston We offer a full spectrum of care, including: • Primary care physicians for you and your family, providing personal care and service • Specialists with innovative treatments and customized programs for all conditions, including cutting-edge orthopedic, cancer, cardiovascular and neurological care • Collaborative teams of experts using the newest technologies and latest research

MAGNOLIA

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SPRING

TOMBALL

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CYPRESS

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WILLOWBROOK

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290

HOUSTON METHODIST WILLOWBROOK HOSPITAL

249

TOWNE LAKE

 Willowbrook Hospital  Breast Care  Emergency Care

 Orthopedics & Sports Medicine  Primary Care  Specialty Care

To find care near you, visit houstonmethodist.org/care-willowbrook or call 281.737.2500 .

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Summer Memories are Better at the Y.

• Swim Lessons and Swim Team • Day Camp and Teen Camp • Overnight Camp • Sports Leagues and Clinics • Group Exercise Classes JOIN US: Healthy Kids Day 2024 Visit your local Y on Saturday, April 20 at 10 am for a day of family fun! Learn more about programs and enjoy a variety of activities. This event is open to the community. Learn more at ymcahouston.org With a variety of engaging activities for youth and families, motivating fitness programs and affordable membership options, a picture perfect summer is waiting for you at the YMCA!

YMCA Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Everyone is welcome.

Learning will never be this easy for your child again. Or as wondrous.

Did you know 90% of a child’s brain develops in the first five years? Since 1998, Primrose schools in Houston have been making the most of this important time by helping children grow the mental, physical and emotional skills that will set them up for success in the classroom and beyond.

Learn more about the 45 Primrose schools in Houston.

Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a registered trademark of Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. ©2024 Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. All rights reserved.

SPRING - KLEIN EDITION

Hello, [Everything] Place A place for leisurely lunches and festive happy hours. Events for the whole family and weddings on The Plaza. One-of-a-kind art installations and memorable staycations. It’s where City life meets bountiful natural beauty, all right outside your door. For the what, when and where, visit cityplacenow.com A special thanks to our merchant partners: Common Bond, Edward Jones, First Tech Credit Union, Focus Optical, Island Grill, Star Cinema & Sushi Rebel.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity. About Community Impact

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Asia Armour Angela Bonilla Melissa Enaje Wesley Gardner Cassandra Jenkins Shaheryar Khan Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Dave Manning Jessica Shorten Haley Velasco Aubrey Vogel Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Jatziri Garcia Ellen Jackson Matt Mills Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White

Kim Giannetti General Manager kgiannetti@ communityimpact.com

Ronald Winters Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Art Production Manager Kaitlin Schmidt

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Email newsletters communityimpact.com/newsletter Support us Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron

16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 281-469-6181 CI Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases skl@communityimpact.com Advertising sklads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

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Primrose School of Spring Klein 281.350.9595 PrimroseSpring-Klein.com Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. ©2024 Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. All rights reserved. Ages for Summer Adventure Club program vary by location. At Primrose Schools ® Summer Adventure Club, your child will discover new things every day through fun hands-on activities—like sports, robotics and more—that encourage them to think with creativity, compassion and resourcefulness. Fun for children in K–5th grade.

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Impacts

Now open

1 Virtuo Spring This complex comprises one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, and features a slate of amenities. • Opened Feb. 1 • 4114 FM 2920, Spring • www.livevirtuospring.com 2 Top Wash Laundry The business offers self-service washers and dryers as well as drop-off service. • Opened Dec. 20 • 16940 Ella Blvd., Ste. 110, Houston • https://topwashlaundry.godaddysites.com 3 Martinizing Cleaners Owned by Sergio and Tanya Said, this business offers dry cleaning, alternations and wash and fold service. • Opened March 16 • 23110 Kuykendahl Road, Ste. 160, Tomball • www.martinizing.com/tomball 4 Body20 Owned by Zeljko and Mary Bosnjak, this business offers customized workouts through physical training with electro-muscle-stimulation technology.

SPRINGWOODS VILLAGE PKWY.

S T .

Old Town Spring

99 TOLL

2920

BOUDREAUX RD.

• Opened in early April • 5250 FM 2920, Spring • www.body20.com/spring

249

JOANLEIGH DR.

CUTTEN RD.

Coming soon

CYPRESS OAKS DR.

VINTAGE PARK BLVD.

5 Houston at Ella Officials with Harris County and developer Palladium USA broke ground March 8 on this 146-unit apartment complex, which will offer 115 affordable housing units. • Opening date TBD

FOREST OAKS PARK

1960

BAMMEL NORTH HOUSTON RD.

• 13420 Ella Blvd., Houston • www.palladiumusa.com

SP E AR S R D.

RIDGE HOLLOW DR.

6 Harmony Science Academy-City Place Harmony Public Schools broke ground March 5 on its

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WILLOWBROOK MALL

Large selection available: items from Adirondacks, tables, chaise lounges, gliders, deep seating sectionals, and much more. VISIT US IN EITHER STORE OR ONLINE. CALL WITH QUESTIONS OR TO PLACE AN ORDER.

CONROE LOCATION

3416 FM 2920, Spring, Texas 77388 817-688-4018 2 miles West of I-45, between the 2 HEB’s SPRING LOCATION 14543 Hwy 105 W Suite 104, Conroe, TX 77304 832-521-5929 Near McCaleb Rd next to Rudy’s BBQ

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BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

12 Water Tree Spring Owner Amanda Morris celebrated the 10th anniversary of this alkaline water store and organic cafe March 14. • 16300 Kuykendahl Road, Ste. 150, Spring • www.facebook.com/watertreespring 13 Pierce and Bell at Home In February, owner Anne Morrow celebrated the five-year anniversary of this Old Town Spring store, which offers women’s clothing, accessories and home decor items. • 222 Gentry St., Spring • www.pierceandbellehome.com 14 Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Officials with Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital and the Texas A&M University School of Medicine gathered Feb. 27 to celebrate the opening of a newly built, dedicated learning space for medical students.

new elementary campus in City Place, which will serve approximately 600 students in grades K-5. • Opening in August 2025 • 2600 Spring Stuebner Road, Spring • www.harmonytx.org 7 Top Soap Car Wash Owned by Tamoor Jalili, this business will offer free vacuum services and monthly memberships. • Opening in 2025 • 2020 FM 2920, Spring • www.topsoapexpress.com

Coming soon

Expansions

18 Portillo’s Officials with this fast-casual restaurant concept known for its Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches and char-grilled burgers announced plans March 7 to open its first two Greater Houston-area locations, including one at Willowbrook Mall. The 6,000-square-foot location will feature an outdoor patio, a pickup area and double drive-thru lane. • Opening by the end of 2024

8 Pizza Zone Owned by Paul and Debbie Gainor, this longstanding Spring pizzeria will be expanding to add a party room, enlarge the dining room and expand the back kitchen. • Expansion began in February • 4660 Louetta Road, Ste. 130, Spring • www.pizzazone.cc

• 18220 Hwy. 249, Houston • www.houstonmethodist.org

15 Spring High School The school’s softball field was renamed in February to honor coach Julie Wyrick, who has coached at Spring High School for almost 24 years, amassing 600 wins.

In the news

• 2000 Willowbrook Mall, Houston • www.portillos.com/willowbrooktx

9 Trinity Klein Lutheran Church In April, this church will be celebrating 150 years since its founding in 1874, as well as the grand opening of its

• 19700 I-45, Spring • www.springisd.org

Restoring Hope Food Pantry building. • 5201 Spring Cypress Road, Spring • www.trinityklein.org

Drama Kids International New owner Davila Hernandez purchased Drama Kids International Northwest Houston in January. The franchise has locations in Cypress, Tomball, Spring and The Woodlands, and offers classes at schools in Klein and Katy ISDs. • www.dramakids.com/ cypress-spring-tomball-tx

16 Forest Oaks Park The playground remodel was completed March 6, and included a new drainage system, a new swing set, two play units and a stand-alone play tunnel. • 627 Cypress Oaks Drive, Spring • www.wcid110.com 17 Forest Oaks Swim & Racquet Club The demolition and complete rebuild of tennis courts 1-4 began in mid-March and is expected to wrap up by late May or early June. • 19023 Joanleigh Drive, Spring • www.wcid110.com

10 Potter’s Wheel Gift Gallery This shop, which offers pottery making and painting classes, celebrated its 10th anniversary in November. • 106 Vintage Park Blvd., Ste. P, Houston • www.giftedpotter.com 11 Fit Club 24 Owners Adam and CC Spry celebrated the 10th anniversary of this family-owned gym on Dec. 13. • 24527 Gosling Road, Ste. C-102, Spring • www.fitclub24.com

Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Houston

Ronald McDonald House Houston and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Houston/Galveston have merged into one organization. • www.rmhchouston.org

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Using Ultrasound to Treat Essential Tremor

Sam Javedan, MD, a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of movement disorders. Affiliated with Memorial Hermann Mischer Neurosciences and part of Mischer Neuroscience Associates, he has a comprehensive understanding of neurological conditions such as essential tremor, Parkinson’s disease and dystonia, with extensive experience in deep brain stimulation (DBS) and focused ultrasound.

For 20 years, Phyllis Lair dealt with a shaky left hand. The 76-year-old College Station resident, who is left-hand dominant, had watched her own mother endure similar symptoms and knew that her condition was inherited. Lair saw a neurologist in College Station and was diagnosed with essential tremor, a neurological condition believed to be caused by disruption of signals that control movement in the brain. Over the years, she also developed shaking of her head and neck. She was prescribed medication that helped control these unwanted movements at first. Within the past three years, however, Lair noticed the medication was no longer working, even though she was using the maximum dosage. After her neurologist added a second medication to her daily regimen, Lair’s hand continued to shake uncontrollably. “I couldn’t write anymore,” she recalls. “Putting on eye makeup was a problem, and I could no longer measure ingredients when I cooked. I avoided eating soup in restaurants and carrying a cup of coffee was difficult.” As the owner of two restaurants who kept the books and managed payroll, her inability to write with her dominant hand drove her to seek a different treatment option. “I saw ads on social media about this new ultrasound procedure to help people with essential tremor,” she remembers, “so I asked my neurologist, Dr. Boyle, about this.” Allison Boyle, MD, a board-certified neurologist with Mischer Neuroscience Associates (MNA) in The Woodlands specializes in neurology and movement disorders. She referred Lair to her colleague, Dr. Javedan. Dr. Javedan determined that Lair was a candidate for a non-invasive treatment known as MR-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS), which was approved by the FDA for the treatment of essential tremor. During the procedure magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to pinpoint the part of the brain causing the tremor, and focused ultrasound delivers soundwaves directly to the brain to heat, or ablate, the area and disrupt the signals from the brain to the affected hand. Lair opted to undergo the procedure in September 2023. “Ms. Lair was a candidate for this procedure because her medications were no longer effective in managing her hand and forearm tremor,” Dr. Javedan says. “A pre-operative CT scan of her skull also determined she was a candidate because the bone density of her skull was optimal for the ultrasound to reach the area of the brain that we needed to target.” The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) lists MRgFUS as a treatment option for essential tremor, paving the way for insurance coverage

of the procedure. “Recent studies on the sustainability of this procedure at the five-year follow-up have shown it to be an effective way to control essential tremor,” Dr. Javedan says.

Sam Javedan, MD Neurosurgeon

On the day of the procedure, Lair’s head was shaved to allow for the placement of a metal fixation frame around her skull to immobilize her head and to optimize the delivery of the soundwaves to her brain. The frame attaches to the skull in four areas that are numbed prior to its placement. She remained awake during the treatment. Guided by a pre-procedure MRI that determined where to begin targeting, Dr. Javedan moved Lair into the MRI machine and administered pulses of ultrasound to the part of her brain where the tremor originated. These pulses temporarily stop the overactive tremor signals emerging from the brain. Then, Lair was brought out of the machine and asked to trace a spiral design and draw straight lines on a sheet of paper. These drawings helped Dr. Javedan determine whether he had located the exact spot needed to control the tremor. After being taken in and out of the MRI machine to test her hand control a few times, Lair’s drawings smoothed out, indicating Dr. Javedan had successfully located the origin of the tremor. “Once we determine we’re in the right spot with the drawings, we deliver the focused ultrasound to that area at a high temperature to create a long-term lesion on the brain,” he says. “I was put in the machine two or three times before I was able to follow the spiral and draw straight lines,” Lair recalls. “My drawings show the difference.” The whole process lasted about three hours, and Lair was discharged. She had a follow-up MRI the next day. She said she never experienced pain—just pressure—and only felt a “little wobbly” and tired the next day. These are common side effects that Dr. Javedan had informed her she might experience. At her three-month follow up in January 2024, Lair underwent another MRI to check if her brain had healed properly. Her hand control was also evaluated. Dr. Javedan says with this procedure, most people can maintain 80% control of their tremors three months after the treatment, and studies show that result is maintained for at least five years. Since her procedure, Lair can write again and has returned to bookkeeping and managing payroll for her two restaurants. She also regularly cares for eight of her 16 grandchildren and is thrilled with her results. “I would do this again in a heartbeat and recommend it for anyone with essential tremor,” she says. “It changes your life and takes you back to the way you should be.”

To learn more about treatment options for essential tremor, visit memorialhermann.org/essentialtremors

Advancing health. Personalizing care.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY MELISSA ENAJE

County fails new air quality rules

Harris County air pollution map Fine particulate matter, micrograms per cubic meter annual average, 2013-15*

5.1-8

8.1-10

10.1-12

Higher than 12

In AAH’s December 2023 report, researchers cited emissions from 47 industrial facilities in eastern Harris County cost the community more than $313 million annually in asthma-related medical expenses. Harris County is inundated with multiple sources of fine particulate matter, said Inyang Uwak, AAH’s research and policy director. “It affects almost every system of the body,” Uwak said. “It’s a very, very tiny particle. What makes this particle very dangerous to health is when you inhale the particles, it can easily pass through all the protections in your respiratory tract.” Harris County Public Health Director Barbie Robinson said she believes commitment from policymakers, industry professionals and community partners must be made to address these issues. “Leadership from all groups must make a concerted effort to improve environmental conditions and address the health disparities caused or exacerbated by air pollution,” she said.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced new national air quality standards Feb. 7 that put Harris County in noncompliance along with nine other Texas counties, including in the Austin and Dallas-Forth Worth areas. The new standards require no more than 9 micrograms per cubic meter level of fine particulate matter—a pollution emitted by power plants, vehicles and industrial facilities that federal officials said can have dangerous and costly health effects. The previous national standard required no more than 12 micrograms per cubic meter. Based on EPA air quality data spanning 2020-22, Harris County air was measured to have roughly 11.4 micrograms per cubic meter annually. The county is also being projected by the EPA to not be able to meet the standards by a 2032 deadline. In a 2023 health disparities annual report released by the Harris County Public Health department, officials said the conditions of where people live and work can have significant effects on one’s health and overall quality of life. Air pollution also impacts residents’ health care costs, according to researchers with Air Alliance Houston.

Humble

1960

Jersey Village

290

Houston

Gulfton

610

Missouri City

288

Pearland

*THE 2013-15 DATA WAS THE MOST RECENT AND COMPREHENSIVE VISUAL OF HARRIS COUNTY’S AIR POLLUTION LEVELS.

SOURCE: ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENSE FUND/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The details

What’s next

dioxide and particulate matter. Under new air quality standards, AAH officials said adverse health effects should be reduced the most in communities of color, where particulate pollution has been the most prevalent for decades.

A significant amount of air pollution in Harris County stems from petroleum refineries, power plants, chemical plants and manufacturing facilities, according to AAH’s report. Large amounts of chemicals are released into the air that include air pollutants such as sulfur

Officials with the Houston-Galveston Area Council are working with the EPA on a 13-county climate action plan, which aims to develop aggressive strategies, programs and policies over the next three years to reduce air pollution, emissions and greenhouse gases in the region. The H-GAC was among entities chosen by the EPA in September to receive $1 million in federal grants for the plan. At a Feb. 27 meeting of the Harris County Commissioners Court, commissioners voted to accept roughly 28% of the funds, or $238,750. The final plan was submitted to the EPA on March 1. On March 8, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit against President Joe Biden’s administration in efforts to block the EPA’s new federal air quality standards. Paxton said in a news release the federal standards are not based on sound science and will impose economic harm on Texas.

Types of air pollution impacting Harris County

Research by the environmental group Air Alliance Houston has found several specific pollutants that are worsening air quality in Harris County.

Term

Definition

Health effects

A mixture of particles such as dust, dirt, soot and smoke emitted by industrial sources, vehicles, construction sites, fires or unpaved roads Highly reactive carbon compounds released by vehicle exhaust, refineries and other industrial sources

PM 2.5 can cause short-term health effects, can affect lung function, and can worsen asthma and heart disease. Breathing VOCs can damage the central nervous system, liver, kidneys and other organs. Some VOCs can cause cancer.

Fine particulate matter (PM 2.5)

Volatile organic compounds (VOC)

A group of gases that come from fossil fuel combustion at power plants and other industrial facilities

Sulfur oxide (SO2)

SO2 is tied to excess mortality and asthma hospitalizations.

SOURCE: AIR ALLIANCE HOUSTON/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SPRING - KLEIN EDITION

Election

Voter Guide

2024

Dates to know

Where to vote

April 22: First day of early voting April 23: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) April 30: Last day of early voting May 4: Election day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or May 6 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

Harris County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on election day. Visit www.harrisvotes.com for polling locations.

Harris County Emergency Services District 11, commissioner Three at-large commissioner positions are open, meaning the three candidates who receive the most votes will be awarded seats on the board.

*INCUMBENT

Ko Barkoh Occupation: business owner Relevant experience: owns and operates a distribution company, resident of ESD 11 community for nearly two decades www.votethetrifecta.com/ko

Joel Ocasio Occupation: paramedic

Karen Plummer* Occupation: title insurance, escrow ocer Relevant experience: current ESD commissioner, community leader, lifelong resident in ESD 11 281-524-7660

Relevant experience: 24 years as a paramedic, 16 years working within ESD 11, eight years in EMS leadership 832-602-9026

What inspired you to run for this oce?

A bad experience with my terminally ill father. He was discharged and transferred to a rehabilitation center. A 20-minute drive took three hours, leaving my father dehydrated and exhausted, and my family anxious about his whereabouts. I’ve bootstrapped a multimillion-dollar company. I aim to use my business acumen and creativity to help ESD 11 become an industry leader.

Over the last 20 years, the incumbents have been nancially irresponsible. We’re over $80 million in debt with decreased quality of prehospital care. I will bring real world experience when it comes to being nancially responsible and provide the highest level of prehospital care through paramedicine, not EMT-Basic.

Knowledge of life without adequate EMS service. Volunteer spirit, willingness to serve and protect our community where we live.

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brookdale.com

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BY WESLEY GARDNER

Kevin Brost Occupation: president and CEO of Command Communications Relevant experience: reghter and chief 37 years, ESD 11 commissioner 14-plus years www.facebook.com/esd11

Brian Gillman Occupation: technical sales representative, paramedic Relevant experience: EMS eld and management experience, academic institution leadership 203-233-1563

Jared W. Adams Occupation: professional reghter and EMT Relevant experience: 25-plus years emergency services experience

What inspired you to run for this oce?

Continue serving my community with 30-plus years of EMS and re department knowledge in north Harris County as a medical responder, reghter/chief and ESD commissioner. My decades of knowledge as a public safety responder and successful business owner more than qualify me for ESD 11 commissioner.

I chose to run for this oce after watching our community lose a world-class EMS organization over the last three years. My hope is that my combined academic management and EMS experience guides this board to establish the quality of services the community deserves.

I want to use my 25-plus years of professional emergency service experience to serve my community. My resume includes 24 years with the largest city department with 10 years on the Technical Rescue Teams (re department special operations) until my promotion to Junior Captain and later to Senior Captain ranks.

Steve Williams* Occupation: Real-estate broker Relevant experience: 5 years ESD 11 commissioner, 20 years

Robert Pinard* Occupation: CEO of Pinard Home Health, CEO of Aria Pharmacy Relevant experience: 8 Years ESD 11 Commissioner

MUD director 713-828-6291

What inspired you to run for this oce?

Our community deserves a world-class rst- responder like ESD 11. My 25 years’ experience with the ESD and MUD demonstrate I have the background and stability to achieve that goal.

25 years of healthcare experience. Currently own and operate healthcare companies in our ESD 11 area.

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Development

BY DANICA LLOYD

The former home of Hewlett Packard Enterprise and Compaq is being revitalized. Located o Hwy. 249 and Louetta Road, the 2.3 million-square- foot campus has been rebranded as Viva Center, according to a Feb. 29 news release. Eduardo Morales is the CEO of alcoholic bever- age company Mexcor International and Morales Capital Group investment rm, which owns the property. In the release, he said his vision is for the property to be “a transformative tech hub that seamlessly blends Houston’s rich history with futuristic innovations.” SynergenX, a hormone replacement therapy and weight loss company, has signed a 10-year lease for its 54,247-square-foot headquarters on-site. Former HPE campus rebranded as Viva Center

How we got here This revitalization project is years in the making. • November 2017 : HPE announces plans to relocate its campus and 3,000 employees after it had ooded in 2016 and 2017. • April 2022 : HPE opens its new headquarters in Spring. • May 2021 : Community Impact reports the relo- cation of Mexcor International’s headquarters to 11177 Compaq Center W. Drive, Houston. • March 2022 : JLL Capital Markets announces the sale of the HPE campus to an aliate of Mexcor International. The specics Viva Center’s oerings include: • 1.3 million square feet of industrial space • 1 million square feet of oce and tech lab space • 6,000-plus garage parking spaces with skywalks • Conference facilities • A full-service cafeteria • A tness center • Trails connecting to Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve

The former HPE campus is now known as Viva Center.

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SPRING KLEIN EDITION

District budgets tighten as school options grow From the cover

By the numbers

The overview

District transfers

Spring ISD Klein ISD Transfers in Transfers out

Despite growth in the area population, SISD enrollment has dropped by about 6% in the last decade, while the number of students transfer- ring out each year for charter schools or other public school districts increased about 148% in the same time frame. Simultaneously, KISD saw 14% enrollment growth and 85% more students leaving for charters and other public schools. Public school—which includes charter schools—enrollment has increased at a slower rate statewide compared to before the coronavirus pandemic, said Bob Popinski, senior director of policy at Raise Your Hand Texas, a nonprofit education advocacy group. “[Texas schools] do base our funding off of aver- age daily attendance, so when enrollment declines and attendance declines, you get into some issues with funding,” Popinski said.

Community Impact analyzed data from the Texas Education Agency on transfers from local school districts and total enrollment. Transfer data from the TEA for the 2022-23 school year shows 14% of students zoned to Spring ISD and 4% of students zoned to Klein ISD left the district for charter or public schools in a different district. Of 27 Greater Houston-area school districts analyzed by Community Impact , TEA data revealed SISD had the fourth-highest percentage of net transfers compared to total enrollment for the 2022-23 school year, behind Houston, Alief and La Porte ISDs. TEA data also shows the students who are leaving are largely choosing charter schools, which continue to open in the Spring and Klein areas. Enrollment opened in February for Yes Prep North Rankin Elementary School’s inaugural 2024-25 school year, and officials with Harmony Public Schools broke ground in March on a new elementary campus in City Place. Slated to open for the 2025-26 school year, Harmony Science Academy-City Place will be followed by a combined middle and high school campus set to open in 2027. Educational options are not limited to charter schools, however. No Texas agency tracks private or homeschool students, but TEA and U.S. Census Bureau Annual Community Survey data shows about 21% of kids ages 5-19 living in KISD’s boundaries and 24% living in SISD’s boundaries are choosing one of these options. ACS five-year estimates data shows 68,084 kids ages 5-19 lived within KISD’s boundaries and 45,104 lived within SISD’s boundaries in 2022. KISD’s enrollment for the 2022-23 school year was 53,712, and SISD’s was 34,114, meaning the districts captured about 79% and 76%, respectively, of possible students.

0 1K 2K 5K 3K 4K 6K

5,055

2,666

545 141

Top Klein ISD, Spring ISD transfers to other districts, charter schools, 2022-23

Number of students

Aldine ISD

281

120

Hallsville ISD

197

441

Harmony Public Schools

570

District enrollment vs. charter school transfers Klein ISD Spring ISD

Idea Public Schools

719

Transfers from KISD and SISD to charter schools

Kipp Texas Public Schools

152

Legacy School of Sport Sciences

53,712

20K 30K 50K 40K 60K

221

47,045

Sam Houston State University Charter School

163

524

School of Science and Technology

1,184

36,098

34,114

253

Texas College Preparatory Academies

303

5,572

2,270

10K

272

Tomball ISD

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Each school district missed out on basic allotment funding* in the 2022-23 school year for students who are zoned for their schools but did not attend. The breakdown

The cost

KISD leaders are budgeting with enrollment trends in mind, KISD Chief of Staff Dayna Hernan- dez said in a March 21 email. “While student transfers can affect our enroll- ment, KISD is an established district that contin- ues to attract families,” Hernandez said. Charter schools also receive state funding and were impacted by a lack of funding dedicated to schools during the 88th state legislative session, Popinski said.

SISD is facing a $25 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2024-25. The anticipated funding gap is “largely due” to a lack of state funding, but can also be attributed to decreased student enroll- ment, SISD officials said in a March 22 email. “This trend is ... seen across many districts,” the email reads. “While it’s challenging to quantify the exact impact, it’s clear that decreased enrollment directly affects our funding, as it is partly based on student attendance.”

Potential funding lost

Spring ISD:

Klein ISD:

$13.1M

$30.3M

*THESE AMOUNTS ARE SOLELY BASED ON THE BASIC ALLOTMENT PER STUDENT IN STATE FUNDING, WHICH HAS REMAINED $6,160 PER STUDENT SINCE 2019.

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

CONTRIBUTIONS BY HANNAH BROL, WESLEY GARDNER & BROOKE SJOBERG BY EMILY LINCKE

“[Smaller campuses] absolutely give us the opportunity to know our kids—and that’s our whole goal. We’re creating a holistic child and preparing them for life after Harmony.” SALLY MAGNUSON, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING, HARMONY PUBLIC SCHOOLS HOUSTON NORTH DISTRICT Smaller class sizes: Some parents prefer students to have smaller class sizes with more opportunity for one-on-one instruction. Special programming: Parents shared that they chose their children’s school for specific programming, such as International Baccalaureate or career development. Religious affiliation: Maintaining a religious aspect to education was another reason cited by parents looking for alternative options. Community Impact interviewed a handful of Texas parents to learn more about why they chose charter schools for their students as opposed to their zoned school district. Choosing charters

Who it's for

Academy through Houston ISD, where she says her son is thriving. “His grades are up, and he’s able to focus on the curriculum,” Dramis said. “We’re even going on more field trips as a family.” Meanwhile, Spring and Klein ISDs both offer specialized programming at select campuses. SISD offers atypical learning programs, including Momentum High School, a school of choice with blended in-person and virtual classes; Spring Early College Academy, where students can earn a high school diploma and associate degree simultaneously; and partnership pathways with Lone Star College. Similarly in KISD, Klein Oak High School boasts an International Baccalaureate program, and KISD’s Early College High School partners with LSC-University Park to give students an opportunity to earn up to 60 hours of tuition- free college credit while earning their high school diploma.

In north Houston, around a dozen charter schools have opened in the last decade, including Harmony and Idea public schools, School of Science and Technology campuses, and Sam Houston State University charter schools, among others. “Not everyone is meant to go to a big ISD—it’s easy to get lost there,” said Sally Magnuson, director of communications and marketing for Harmony Public Schools Houston North District. “For probably 90% of kids, it works out great. But for the others who can’t afford private school, it’s a really good choice.” Since its inception in 2006, Harmony Public Schools Houston North District has grown to include 11 campuses. Statewide, the charter school system comprises 65 campuses and plans to reach 70 campuses by 2025, Magnuson said. Mary Dramis, who lives within KISD’s boundaries, opted to enroll her seventh grade son at the virtual school program Texas Connections

SOURCES: GEORGETOWN ISD, HUTTO ISD, PFLUGERVILLE ISD, ROUND ROCK ISD PARENTS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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SPRING - KLEIN EDITION

Transportation

Events

BY HANNAH BROL

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

Construction begins on Willowbrook-area FM 1960 project

The Longhorn Rod Run Old Town Spring will host a 1950s and 1960s car show with food, shopping and music. • April 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (admission) • Preservation Park, 130 Spring School Road, Spring • www.oldtownspringshopping.com Texas Master Chorale spring concert Texas Master Chorale is holding a spring concert focused on the music of peace, love and joy. This concert will feature “Jubilate Deo” by Dan Forrest. • April 27, 7:30 p.m. • $25 (general admission), free (students with ID) • John Wesley Church, 5830 Bermuda Dunes Drive, Houston • www.texasmasterchorale.org

April

North Houston Skatepark Lone Star Nationals The 2024 USA BMX Lone Star Nationals will include amateur and professional BMX riders. • April 19-21, 9:30 a.m. • Free (admission) • Rockstar Energy Bike Park, 12257 Kuykendahl Road, Houston • www.northhouston.org Jackie Evancho Cypress Creek Foundation for the Arts and Community Enrichment will host an evening with Jackie Evancho of “America’s Got Talent” and “The Masked Singer.” • April 20, 7:30 p.m. • $45-$75 (admission) • The Centrum, 6823 Cypresswood Drive, Spring • www.cypresscreekface.org ‘High School Musical 2 Jr.’ Playhouse 1960’s Young Actors ages 5-17 will perform “High School Musical 2 Jr.” • April 20-21 and 27-28, 3 p.m.; April 20 and 27, 8 p.m.

Nearly 17 years after design work first began, construction broke ground Dec. 8 on a project to improve FM 1960 in the Willowbrook area, officials with the Texas Department of Transportation confirmed via email March 25. Long story short As previously reported by Community Impact, a project to improve FM 1960 in the Willowbrook area has been in the works since 2006. Over the years, the project has been delayed multiple times due to utility conflicts, right-of-way acquisitions and rail- road requisites required for the project. The project was first scheduled to go out for bids in 2018. What’s being done According to TxDOT officials, the Willowbrook-area project will expand FM 1960 between Hwy. 249 and Cutten Road while also adding: • New pavement

• Continuous sidewalks • Traffic signals • Drainage improvements The project will add a through lane east- and westbound on FM 1960 from the Willowbrook Mall center entrance to Cutten Road. “The project is designed to improve mobility, reduce congestion and enhance safety for the motoring public,” TxDOT Public Information Officer Bambi Hall said. In a March 29 email, Hall noted city of Houston waterline and storm sewer improvements are underway as part of the project. The project contractor is SER Construction Partners, LLC. Construction is expected to be completed in summer 2026. “Motorists can expect daily and long-term lane closures along with lane configuration changes as the project progresses,” Hall said.

249

1960

WILLOWBROOK MALL

The cost When Community Impact last reported on the project in 2022, TxDOT officials estimated the FM 1960 project to cost roughly $20 million with 80% of funding coming from federal funds and 20% coming from state funds. As of March 25, Hall said the project is now estimated to cost $27.3 million. “Prior to letting, any cost is considered an esti- mate,” Hall said. “All projects are subject to cost escalations as the cost of materials, equipment, etc., may be dictated by current market rates.”

Northwest Houston’s Best Pop-up Children’s Resale Just Between Friends Northwest Houston is holding a kid’s consignment sale with bargains on clothing, shoes, books, educational materials, baby essentials, maternity items and furniture. • April 24, 2 p.m. (VIPs only); April 25-27, 9 a.m. (open to the public) • Free (online general admission), $3 (entry at door), $15-$20 (VIP admission) • Klein Multipurpose Center, 7500 FM 2920, Spring • https://nwhouston.jbfsale.com

May

Klein ISD Art Festival Klein ISD is holding its inaugural art festival to support young artists and local businesses. • May 11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. • Free (admission) • Klein Multipurpose Center, 7500 FM 2920, Spring • www.kleinisd.net

• $11.80-$14.69 (admission) • 6814 Gant Road, Houston • www.playhouse1960.com

SPRING STUEBNER 6603 Spring Stuebner Rd (281) 288-0239

NORTH LOUETTA 1614 Louetta (281) 350-1198 KUYKENDAHL 13313 Kuykendahl (281) 873-5220

LOUETTA 7314 Louetta (281) 370-1986

WILLOWBROOK 6927 FM 1960 W (281) 580-1734

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