Conroe - Montgomery Edition | April 2026

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Conroe Montgomery Edition VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1 APRIL 25MAY 25, 2026

Built for the next storm Montgomery County developing disaster response hubs

INSIDE

Also in this issue

Impacts

Page 8

Read about Crunch Fitness, a new gym in Conroe

Education

Page 18

Learn about CISD’s latest enrollment projections

Montgomery County Precinct 2’s new emergency management building is nearing completion and is expected to give west county crews quicker access to disaster supplies such as water, cots and other emergency resources. (Courtesy Montgomery County Precinct 2)

Nonprot

Page 31

See what the mission of Operation Pets Alive is

At Memorial Hermann, we believe finish lines don’t exist. For our patients and the health of our community, our work is never done. Each milestone inspires us to look ahead—to relentlessly improve care, innovate for the future and to see that the medicine of tomorrow is even better than today. It is our promise to not only advance health but to personalize care, for you and for generations to come. Relentlessly pushing health and care forward.

Advancing health. Personalizing care.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

scan to schedule

Lakeside living is hitting the shores of Chambers Creek! With our new private marina on Lake Conroe, boating to dinner or tubing with the grandkids is now just steps from your back door. Come sail-a-brate this exciting new amenity and cruise our model park for prizes—and boatloads of incentives on your gorgeous new home. 55+ HOMES FROM THE $350s TO $1M+ • 11 MODEL HOMES • 9 PREMIER BUILDERS BOAT TOURS NOW THROUGH MAY 31

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX • 2025 PROPERTY TAX DATA REPORT • PAID FOR BY OWNWELL

54% of Montgomery County residential properties didn’t protest their 2025 property taxes.

46%

54%

Protested 1

Didn’t Protest 1

139,280

164,427

residential properties

$26.4M total missed potential savings

$40.3M total realized savings in 2025

Protestors won 88% of the time in Montgomery County¹

WHY CHOOSE OWNWELL² 91% 18% 7,822 of Montgomery County residential protested properties chose Ownwell in 2025

IMPORTANT DATES

deadline for current & retroactive homestead exemption applications April 30, 2026 May 15, 2026

Montgomery County 2025 win rate

Montgomery County properties represented by Ownwell in 2025

property tax protest deadline

$744 average annual property tax savings for Ownwell clients in 2025

PROTEST YOUR 2026 PROPERTY TAXES

or visit Ownwell.com/impact to get started today. Enter an address and see how much you’re overpaying →

25%

of your tax bill savings only. No savings? No fee. Guaranteed.

¹ ownwell.com/results/texas-protest-vs-non-protest • ² ownwell.com/results/texas-property-tax-protest-results-agent-performance

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Make Friends. Make Memories. Make Life an Adventure.

Imagine waking to a golden sunrise, hiking a woodland trail, meeting a neighbor for a morning workout – and still having the whole day in front of you. It’s not a dream, it’s your life at Clopton Farms. With acclaimed Montgomery ISD schools, a state-of-the-art recreation center, a glistening pool, gorgeous parks and more, this resort-style community is an amenity-filled escape from the ordinary – and a place you’ll be proud to call home.

To see available Quick Move-In Homes, scan the QR Code or call 346-266-0086.

New Homes From the High $300s | 2,128–3,613 sq. ft. | 3–5 Beds | 2–4 Baths | 2– to 4–Bay Garages

The prices of our homes, included features, plans, specifications, promotions/incentives, neighborhood build-out and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions, square footage and acreage are approximate and should not be used as a representation of any home’s or homesite’s precise or actual size, location or orientation. There is no guarantee that any particular homesite or home will be available. A Broker/Agent must register their client in person on client’s first visit at each community for a Broker/Agent to receive a commission or referral fee, if available. Not all features and options are available in all homes. Unless otherwise expressly stated, homes do not come with hardscape, landscape, or other decorator items. Any photographs or renderings used herein reflect artists’ conceptions and are for illustrative purposes only. Community maps, illustrations, plans and/or amenities reflect our current vision and are subject to change without notice. Photographs or renderings of people do not depict or indicate any preference regarding race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, familial status, or national origin. Our name and the logos contained herein are registered trademarks of Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. © 2026 Tri Pointe Homes Texas, Inc. All rights reserved.

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

MADE FOR YOU

At David Weekley Homes, you are the inspiration behind every decision we make. Your Personal Home Team in Houston will work with you from selection to move-in and beyond — because you deserve a home built with you in mind.

Find your dream home by contacting the Houston Team at 713-979-5058

See a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant for details. Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Copyright © 2025 David Weekley Homes – All Rights Reserved. Houston, TX (HOU-25-005453)

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact

Community Roots: Founded in 2005 by John and Jennifer Garrett, we remain a locally owned business today. Texas-Wide Reach: We deliver trusted news to 75+ communities across the Austin, Bryan-College Station, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio metros.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Ella Barnes Sarah Brager Karley Cross Bradley Dountz Wesley Gardner Cole Gee Rachel Leland

Chrissy Leggett General Manager

Emily Lincke Roo Moody

Nichaela Shaheen Catherine White Kara Willis Ariel Worthy Graphic Designers Ellen Jackson Matt Mills

Jake Schlesinger Jesus Verastegui Ronald Winters Managing Editor James T. Norman Product Manager Martha Risinger Quality Desk Editor Sarah Hernandez Houston Market President Jason Culpepper

Lizzy Spangler Editor

Chelsea Williams Account Executive

Correction: Volume 11, Issue 12 Candidate responses in two Q&As were misattributed. The Q&As on page 15 are correct.

16300 Northwest Freeway, Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 2814696181 Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases comnews@communityimpact.com Advertising comads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

We've teamed up to bring you more of the stories you care about.

Proudly printed by

Connect on social

@communityimpacthtx

CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

Impacts

• 120 Corporate Drive, Willis • www.alpha-gym.org

Willis

3 Blue Giraffe Cafe The cafe offers a variety of drinks and snacks. Customers can order lattes, frappes, dirty sodas and matchas, and she said the shop carries 40 flavors of local sourced coffee beans. Bites include smash burgers, corn dogs, funnel cakes and more. • Opened March 13 • 1905 Longmire Road, Ste. A1, Conroe • www.bluegiraffecafe.com 4 United Refrigeration Inc. Officials confirmed the opening of a new branch in Conroe. Founded in Philadelphia in 1947, United Refrigeration Inc. carries products across the refrigeration and air conditioning industry, according to its website. • Opened March 11 • 118 S. Frazier St., Conroe • www.uri.com 5 Texas Tires Conroe The business offers wheels, tires, suspension services, alignments and more. The shop also sells truck accessories. • Opened April 6 • 18435 Hwy. 105 W., Montgomery • www.texastires.com 6 Classic Mode Toys and Games The store is centered on classic styles of games, such as Monopoly, Magic: The Gathering and Pokemon. Classic Mode Toys and Games also hosts collecting and trading nights alongside tournaments. • Opened April 1

DANVILLE ST.

Montgomery

1097

BELL ST.

12 13

SUMMIT PARK DR.

LAKE CONROE

CORPORATE DR.

830

1484

2432

105

FLIGHT DECK CT.

149

2854

Conroe

KEENAN CUT OFF RD.

336

3083

FISH CREEK THOROUGHFARE

1314

WEST FORK SAN JACINTO RIVER

149

SHERIDAN RIVER TRL.

1488

MAP NOT TO SCALE

242

• 1211 N. Loop 336 W., Ste. G, Conroe • www.facebook.com/classicmodetoys

• 14968 Hwy. 105, Montgomery • www.lakeconroesplashzone.com

Now open

Coming soon

1 Lake Conroe Splash Zone Founded by Carter Drab, Lake Conroe Splash Zone is an inflatable obstacle course located inside Lake Conroe Beach Park. • Opened in March

2 Alpha Gym The warehouse-style fitness facility offers a range of equipment, including machines, free weights and powerlifting equipment. • Opened Feb. 1

7 Crispý Cones The business offers hand-rolled dough cones covered in cinnamon and sugar or specialty powder, and filled with spreads and soft serve ice cream.

Fast COMPASSIONATE CARE Close to HOME Voted Best ER and Best Urgent Care

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32784 FM 2978, Magnolia, TX 77354 | 13902 Spring Cypress Rd, Cypress, TX 77429

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

• Opening this spring • 2200 N. Frazier St., Ste. 135, Conroe • www.crispycones.com

Relocations

Now open

13 Willis Police Department Willis Police Department’s new location was the previous city hall for Willis and features four interview rooms for interactions with victims of crime. A ribbon cutting was held Feb. 26 by the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce. • Relocated Jan. 23 • 200 N. Bell St., Willis • Facebook: Willis Police Department

8 Buttermilk Cafe According to its website, beyond offering sweets and drinks, Buttermilk Cafe is a registered nonprofit organization. • Opening in May

• 302 N. Danville St., Willis • www.buttermilkcafe.org

9 Bar-A-BBQ Owner and pit master Cooper Abercrombie has confirmed that Bar-A-BBQ will be opening up a new brick-and-mortar location in Montgomery. • Opening by the third quarter of 2026 • 21641 FM 2854, Montgomery • www.barabbq.com

In the news

14 The Village Play Cafe As of March, officials said the former Little Dreamers Playhouse rebranded to The Village Play Cafe under new ownership with owner Caroline Plagens. Community Impact previously reported that Little Dreamer’s Playhouse made the decision to close its establishment by Feb. 27. • 15363 Summit Park Drive, Ste. 204, Montgomery • www.thevillageplay.com 15 Converde The 55-plus residential community within the master- planned community Evergreen is now open for presales, according to a March 20 news release. The community is 170 acres and planned for about 540 homes.

18 Crunch Fitness The 45,000-square-foot fitness facility is valued at $6 million and includes amenities such as high- intensity interval training zones, Olympic lifting platforms, cycling and yoga studios, HydroMassage beds, red light therapy and Kids Crunch babysitting services, as previously reported. • Opened March 18 • 1420 N. Loop 336 W., Ste. 106, Conroe • www.crunch.com

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

10 Nothing Bundt Cakes A new location for the bakery shop will open in the Harper’s Landing area, according to a Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation filing. The shop offers full- size and mini bundt cakes in a variety of flavors and styles. • 10463 Hwy. 242, Ste. 221, Conroe • www.nothingbundtcakes.com 11 Ulta An Ulta store is set to come to Willis, per a TDLR filing. The retailer offers a variety of skin care and makeup products. • I-45 North at FM 1097, Willis • www.ulta.com 12 Domino’s Pizza The pizza restaurant is slated to bring a new 1,406-square-foot location to the Willis area. Construction is estimated to start in May and wrap up in August. • 1000 W. Montgomery St., Willis • www.dominos.com

• 16313 Sheridan River Trail, Conroe • www.sheahomes.com/converde

• 10607 Flight Deck Court, Conroe • www.firstamericahomes.com

16 Compassion United The nonprofit is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Compassion United serves marginalized residents of Montgomery County through outreach, relief and empowerment, and began in 2006, per its website.

American Heart Association The organization in March announced two leadership appointments for the Greater Houston and Gulf Coast markets. Kellie Armstrong was named senior executive director for the Greater Houston market, and Lisa Fenley was appointed executive director for the Gulf Coast, according to a news release. • www.heart.org

• 350 Foster Drive, Conroe • www.compassionunited.us

17 First America Homes The homebuilder is now offering new housing in the Cielo community in Conroe, according to an April 2 news release. First America Homes will be offering six different floor plans and prices will start from the $240,000s.

Retail & Wholesale Nursery 3619 Honea Egypt Rd. Montgomery, TX 77316 936-224-5805 • Plant-spot.com

Trees • Shrubs • Annuals • Perennials • Tropicals • Herbs • Vegetables • Soils • Pottery • Gift Shop

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Government

BY COLE GEE

Meet the Fire Chiefs Association president, Raymond Flannelly On Jan. 8, Raymond Flannelly was officially elected as president of the Montgomery County Fire Chiefs Association. A 45-year veteran of the force, Flannelly has served the county as fire chief of Montgomery County Emergency Services District No. 9 for the last 16 years. The following interview has been edited for length and clarity. What are your responsibilities as president of the Fire Chiefs Association? Really, it’s just to keep each fire department, there’s 12 fire departments in Montgomery County, ... keep them informed of what we’re doing, any future growth, training options, anything that better prepares us to assist the citizens that reside in Montgomery County or traveling through Montgomery County. You’ve been a part of the firefighting world for around 45 years, going up to now. How’s it changed since you first started? It’s changed tremendously, and the change is for the better. The firemen in the beginning of time didn’t worry about things like cancer or mental health, and that’s the biggest change. Take a fire coat, for example. A bunker coat that a firefighter puts on has a life expectancy of 10 years. And every year, that coat has to be tested by a third- party tester, and it has to pass inspection. Until recently, we never cared about the person wearing that coat. How messed up is that? ... Now we have things in place to protect the firefighters’ longevity. Cancer is running crazy in

the fire service. ... I’m thankful that we’re finally realizing mental health and cancer prevention are things that are important again for the longevity of these firefighters. Is there a moment in your career that most shaped the kind of leader you are today? A moment, no, but I’ve been very blessed to work around very talented officers. I picked and chose from each officer what I felt would be a ben- efit to me and my leadership style. I’ve always led by example, 35 years as a company officer in the city of Houston, the third-largest fire department in the United States. What are some of the bigger challenges fire departments in Montgomery County face right now? Growth and financing, Montgomery County is growing so fast that each department in the county has a hard time keeping up. ... To build a station nowadays is roughly about $5 million on the low end, and they don’t have to plan for that. ... So a fire chief has to always think about tomor- row; planning is a huge part of what’s going on in the fire service in Montgomery County. Are there any initiatives you hope to implement as Fire Chief Association president? I would like to see us train together more. It’s 12 different fire departments, and your homeowner’s insurance is based on an ISO score. An ISO score has many elements to help maintain an affordable home insurance policy on your house. Well, when we train with our neighbors, you get points for that to help reduce your homeowner’s insurance. So I’d like to see more interlocal training, which has really started to gear up over the last couple of months. ... The great thing about the fire service in Montgomery County is if my department is tied up on an incident, our neighbors will come in and just

COURTESY RAYMOND FLANNELLY

assume the role as if it were their incident, and that’s pretty significant. What would you say to a young person considering a career in firefighting today? I would suggest education. ... Degrees are important. Certifications are important, but more importantly, your physical shape and use [of] the programs that are available to you. Mental health, cancer screening, physicals and take care of yourself.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version, visit communityimpact.com .

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN

Montgomery County ESD 1 opens training, re station facility

Montgomery County Emergency Services District No. 1 opened a new facility in Willis on March 27 that ocials said is designed to support both reghter training and daily operations as the district continues to grow. At a glance Assistant Chief Kirk Bailey said the facility includes an outdoor classroom, indoor classroom space, locker rooms and dorm areas. District sta said the training schedule already includes 15 months of planned instruction. O- cials also said the site supports multiple specialty programs, such as reghting, emergency medical services and dive team operations. What they’re saying District sta said the district has grown from 88 personnel to 143 over the last three and a half years, and that the new site is intended to help meet stang and training needs year-round.

The facility includes a ve-story burn tower built to simulate a range of structures, from manufactured homes to commercial buildings, along with features for ladder training, rope rescue and drafting water.

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

Registration for the Fall 2026, Spring & Summer 2027 academic year opens on April 13, 2026. LoneStar.edu/FullYearSchedule

Briarley: space to live. Montgomery: a town to love. THE HOMES: • From the low $600s • Tour our model home: 119 Plott Hound Dr, Montgomery, TX 77316 THE COMMUNITY: • Conveniently located off Highway 105 • Just minutes from heart of Montgomery • Future recreation center, scenic walking trails, lakes, and pocket parks

105

Montgomery

FIND YOUR HOME

149

Briarley

149

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Government

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN & KARA WILLIS

Conroe restores step pay for responders Conroe City Council approved reinstating the step pay program for police and fire civil service employees March 26, with the pay made retroactive to each employee’s anniver- sary date. In a nutshell The step pay program gives eligible police and fire civil service employees pay increases tied to their anniversary dates, creating a more predictable pay progression over time, according to discussion during the meeting. City Administrator Gary Scott said the cost to fully reinstate the program for the 2025-26 budget cycle is about $1.12 million. During the meeting, city officials said the move could be sustainably funded and tied that argument to city savings over the last two years.

Conroe OKs nearly $292K in traffic signal work Conroe City Council approved four traffic signal design contracts March 26 for intersections city officials said need upgrades. The details The contracts cover design work only, city staff said. They total $292,006, per agenda documents. 1 $71,680 for Othon Inc. at Hwy. 105 and 10th Street 2 $69,950 for Kimley-Horn at North Loop 336 and Plantation Drive 3 $74,750 for Cobb, Fendley & Associates Inc. at Hwy. 75 and Mill Avenue 4 $75,626 for Iteris Inc. at Hwy. 75 and Gladstell Street A closer look At Hwy. 105 and 10th Street, the proposal

Traffic signal projects

PLANTATION DR.

3083

336

105

10TH ST.

MILL AVE.

S. FRAZIER ST.

1314

includes survey work, traffic signal design and related engineering services. At Hwy. 75 and Mill Avenue, the scope includes pavement markings, curb ramp modifications and fixes for curb areas.

Montgomery County to seek courthouse architect Montgomery County commissioners voted 4-1 to advertise for architect services for a new justice center and courthouse facility during their March 26 meeting. Commissioners also discussed potential future financing options for the project that could include a bond election. building, according to discussion at the meeting. What happened

Potential funding sources for construction General obligation bonds Certificates of obligation Public-private partnership

Precinct 3 Commissioner Ritch Wheeler cast the opposing vote, saying he did not think the new construction should be behind the current building. Wheeler noted the county cannot decide to place a bond on the November ballot until 78-90 days before the election, in August.

Alan B. Sadler Commissioners Court Building

The architectural services approved will be funded through a court facilities fund and will be for a site adjacent to the Alan B. Sadler Commissioners Court

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

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Election

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN & HALEY VELASCO

Conroe Municipal Judge

KEY: *Incumbent

Jay Gross Experience: Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

James Holian Experience: community center director; legal studies education; Texas House staffer; law firm assistant; twice congressional staffer www.james4judge.com

Tanya Maddux Experience: accounting, Conroe Golf Cars: 15 years; substitute teacher, Conroe ISD: 4 years; volunteer: 30+ years www.tanyamaddux.com

What is your top priority, if elected?

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

My top priority is upholding law and order for all Conroe residents, ensuring safety, fairness, and impartial justice without favoritism. Judicial ethics demand strict impartiality on all city matters and laws to protect our community.

If elected, my priority is enhancing the efficiency of our court system while improving access for all. I am committed to fostering a judicial environment that restores public trust and supports the overall well- being of our community.

How would you ensure fairness and impartiality in your courtroom?

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Fairness comes from impartial, strictly evidence driven rulings rooted in our nation’s judicial principles. I’ll deliver just outcomes on a case-by-case basis that will seek truth, hold all accountable, encourage positive change when possible, and always protect Conroe families and individuals first.

I will strictly adhere to legal and ethical standards, treat every individual with respect, and maintain transparency in the courtroom. Through continued education and careful consideration of each case, I will ensure all parties have an equal opportunity to be heard.

Montgomery City Council, Place 4

What should Montgomery’s budget priorities be? Budget priorities should focus on protecting core services, strengthening infrastructure and preserving community character.

What is your top priority, if elected?

My top priority is community first. To balance the historic charm of the city, while balancing the growth and future infrastructure.

Cheryl Fox* Experience: retired small business owner, city committees, resident with knowledge of city projects ... www.facebook.com/cherylfoxfor montgomerycitycouncilplace4 Efrain B. Lucas Experience: restaurant and hospitality industry, human resources, training staff, budgeting, maintenance & repair, property management, short-term ...

Revitalize downtown and support small business by putting tax dollars to work. No more continuing to expand their real estate footprint. No tax breaks for big box stores. Restore trust in government through transparency, fiscal responsibility and putting personality conflicts aside to solve real problems.

Evaluate critical needs, Improvement of current infrastructure, Restore MEDC funding, stop buying real estate and sitting on it.

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

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Transportation

BY LIZZY SPANGLER

Ongoing projects

1 Hwy. 105 widening Project: Between 10th Street and South Loop 336, Hwy. 105 is being widened from two to four lanes. Update: This project is 60% complete, per the Texas Department of Transportation’s March 10 media update. • Timeline: March 2023-second quarter 2028 • Cost: $52.65 million • Funding source: state funds 2 South Loop 336 widening Project: South Loop 336 is being widened from two to four lanes between I-45 and Ladera Creek Trace. Update: This project is 62% completed, according to TxDOT’s March 10 media update. • Timeline: November 2024-third quarter 2027 • Cost: $20.57 million • Funding source: state funds 3 South Loop 336 lighting Project: This project entails safety lights, conduit and other electrical services along South Loop 336 between I-45 and Sgt. Ed Holcomb Boulevard. Update: According to TxDOT’s March 10 media update, this project is 98% completed. • Timeline: December 2024-second quarter 2026 • Cost: $518,164 Project: High mast LED lights are being installed along the main lanes of I-45 between FM 830 and Shepard Hill Road. Update: This project is 91% complete, according to TxDOT’s March 10 media update. • Timeline: February 2025-second quarter 2026 • Cost: $1.45 million • Funding source: state funds 5 FM 1097 widening • Funding source: state funds 4 I-45 LED installation Project: FM 1097 is being widened from two to four lanes with a continuous left-turn lane between west of Blueberry Hills Road to Lake Conroe Hills Drive. Update: According to TxDOT’s March 10 media update,

SHEPARD HILL RD.

Willis

Montgomery

1097

BLUEBERRY HILLS RD.

LONE STAR PKWY.

LAKE CONROE HILLS DR.

2432

830

ATKINS CREEK

LAKE CONROE

1484

105

149

2854

N. 10TH ST.

336

KEENAN CUT OFF RD.

LADERA CREEK TRACE

SGT. ED HOLCOMB BLVD.

Conroe

FISH CREEK THOROUGHFARE

3083

242

VISION PARK BLVD.

1314

149

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

1488

• Cost: $4.41 million • Funding sources: federal, state funds 7 I-45 direct connector

this project is 90% completed. • Timeline: second quarter 2022-second quarter 2026 • Cost: $20.21 million • Funding sources: federal, state funds 6 FM 1097 at Atkins Creek project Project: This project entails culvert replacement, shoulder additions and other improvements. Update: This project is 67% complete, according to TxDOT’s March 10 media update. • Timeline: third quarter 2025-third quarter 2026

242

Project: A direct connector is being constructed to connect northbound I-45 with eastbound Hwy. 242. Update: This project is 22% completed, according to a March 10 media update from TxDOT. • Timeline: second quarter 2025-third quarter 2028 • Cost: $42.63 million • Funding sources: federal, state funds

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Education

Conroe ISD is projected to see enrollment grow to 73,000 students by the 2030-31 school year before declining to 71,500 in 2035-36, according to a new Zonda Demographics study presented to the board of trustees at its March 17 meeting. CISD enrollment increased by 5,072 students Conroe ISD growth projections drop overall in the last four school years, although 150 fewer students entered in the 2025-26 school year, according to Zonda. This contrasts with a previous Population and Survey Analysts report that showed nearly steady growth expected from 2023-33, and an estimated 98,353 students in 2032-33.

A closer look

Zonda officials said low birth rates are impacting enrollment numbers, with fewer births than previously projected. “We used district birth date data, from the state health department ... we look at the ZIP codes that predominantly make up the district and look at the kindergarten enrollment as a capture rate,” said Rocky Gardiner, director of school district consulting. This projection comes despite potentially 22,000 new single-family lots through 2036, according to Zonda.

Conroe ISD 10-year student enrollment projections 100K

Zonda report

PASA study

98,353

67,693

75K 50K 25K 0

71,527

67,761

Numbers to know 1,200 houses under construction in CISD 1,700 new houses in active inventory 20 future subdivisions expected in CISD

+5.66%: change from 2021-22 to 2035-36

+45.15%: change from 2021-22 to 2032-33

2021- 22

2022- 23

2023- 24

2024- 25

2025- 26

2026- 27

2027- 28

2028- 29

2029- 30

2030- 31

2031- 32

2032- 33

2033- 34

2034- 35

2035- 36

School years

SOURCES: POPULATION AND SURVEY ANALYSTS, ZONDA DEMOGRAPHICS, CONROE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCE: ZONDA DEMOGRAPHICS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANGELA BONILLA

A long time coming

Looking ahead

Officials said by comparing student ID numbers year-to-year, they were able to show that the number of students leaving the school district from kindergarten to 11th grade increased from 6,653 students leaving in the 2024-25 school year to 7,260 students for the 2025-26 school year. According to the data, the largest class of the current school year is 10th grade, with 5,584 students, and ninth grade has the second-most students, with 5,774 enrolled. The 2022 study projected that the district would see the most growth in the Conroe, Caney Creek and Grand Oaks feeder zones including San Jacinto Elementary School which would have an increase of over 1,700 students. San Jacinto Elementary is not, however, one of the schools which will have an increase, per the Zonda report. Schools that will see an increase in The Woodlands area include Derechin Elementary School, McCullough Junior High School and College Park High School.

Following the presentation, the district now has a clearer and an up-to-date understanding of how it is growing and changing, and it will be receiving quarterly updates from Zonda, Superintendent David Vinson told Community Impact . “In a district like Conroe ISD, where development remains strong with thousands of future lots, multifamily homes, and active subdivisions, having current data is critical,” Vinson said. “These insights allow us to be more strategic in planning for growth and address the needs for teachers and staff.” The Zonda study does project continued growth in the Conroe, Caney Creek and Grand Oaks feeder zones where schools are being built with 2023 bond funds.

Students entering and leaving

Transfers in The Zonda study shows the gap between K-11th grade students entering and leaving the district has narrowed. Transfers out

7,853 6,562 2023-24 school year 7,383 6,653 2024-25 school year 7,449 7,260 2025-26 school year

SOURCES: ZONDA DEMOGRAPHICS, CONROE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Education

BY ANGELA BONILLA

BY LIZZY SPANGLER

WISD releases rezoning map for Castleschouldt Elementary

SHSU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine celebrates Match Day

On March 20, student doctors at Sam Houston State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine celebrated Match Day and learned where they would go for their residencies. Student doctors interview with residency programs across the country, and submit a ranked list of the residency programs where they’d like to train, COM Dean Thomas Mohr said. The residency programs also rank the students they’ve interviewed, and after the preferences are processed, student doctors are paired with residency programs. According to a March 20 news release, COM’s residency placement rate exceeded 99%; almost 66% of student doctors will remain in Texas for their residencies; a little over 51% of student doctors matched into primary care specialties such as family medicine, internal medicine and pediatrics; and 26% of student doctors matched into emergency medicine. 1 On March 20, student doctors at the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Sam Houston State University learned where they would be going for their residencies. 2 College of Osteopathic Medicine Dean Thomas Mohr addresses students during the March 20 ceremony. 3 After learning where they were matched, student doctors celebrated with friends and family.

The Willis ISD board of trustees approved attendance boundaries for the new Ruth Castle- schouldt Elementary School at 8150 MP Clark Road in Conroe at its Feb. 11 meeting. How we got here The school is part of the WISD’s $143 million 2022 bond and is set to open in August to serve kindergarten through fifth grade, as previously reported by Community Impact . Chastity Simon, the associate principal and dean of instruction at Brabham Middle School, was named as the first principal of Ruth Castle- schouldt Elementary School, per prior reporting. More details WISD Chief Operations Officer Bob Eaton told the board at its Feb. 11 meeting that the rezoning is to not only populate the school but to “read- just transportation routes for increased efficiency and realign feeder patterns and roads.”

Elementary schools:

Parmley

Meador

Hardy

Lagway

Turner

Cannan Castleschouldt

WISD 2025-26 school year boundaries

WISD 2026-27 school year boundaries

1097

PHOTOS BY LIZZY SPANGLER/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCE: WILLIS ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

“What this is focused on and working with transportation with their buses and routes, we’re looking at breaking it up from major intersec- tions and roads like [FM] 1097,” Eaton said at the Feb. 11 meeting

What’s next Families of those impacted by the rezoning received a letter, according to WISD officials. Ruth Castleschouldt Elementary School will open for the first day of school Aug. 12.

Education

Conroe ISD board names new principals The Conroe ISD board of trustees on March 17 approved the approved the follow- ing principals: • Bradley Elementary School: Tracey Summerville • Suchma Elementary School: Nicholas Kral • Cox Intermediate School: Valentina Majeski • York Junior High School : Kelli McWashington • Grand Oaks High School Ninth-Grade campus: Sarah Dorsey Also of note The board also approved an owl as the mascot for Kacy Arnold Elementary School, which will open in August at 5175 Woodson’s Spring Drive in Spring.

SHSU increases free tuition threshold to $100K Families making up to $100,000 are now eligible for the Bearkat Promise program at Sam Houston State University, after the university announced Feb. 24 that it was raising the family income eligibility threshold from $40,000. In a nutshell The Bearkat Promise program provides eligible students with the mandatory tuition and fees they need for up to 15 credit hours per semester, according to its website. The increased income threshold starts in fall 2026. The program is renewable for up to three con- secutive years and does not include coverage of nonmandatory fees such as housing or meal plans, according to the news release. Quote of note “College affordability affects far more families

Bearkat Promise requirements According to the news release, to qualify for the program, students must: Be an entering freshman or transfer student

Be a Texas resident with demonstrated financial need

Be eligible for a federal Pell Grant

Submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid by the priority deadline of March 1

Enroll in at least 12 credit hours per semester

SOURCE: SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

than many realize,” Jason L. Meriwether, vice president for enrollment management, said via news release. “Expanding the Bearkat Promise ensures more Texas students can focus on earning their degree rather than worrying about tuition.”

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANGELA BONILLA, EMILY LINCKE & LIZZY SPANGLER

LSCS ends year with $163M net income Lone Star College System finished the 2024-25 fiscal year with a net income of $163 million , after subtracting expenses from revenues, per LSCS’ Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. The gist Per the report, actual totals for FY 2024-25 were $604 million in nonoperating revenues, $563.64 million in operating expenses, and $122.68 million in operating revenues. Some context In a March 6 email, Chief Financial Officer Kristy Vienne explained that figures are not directly comparable to LSCS’ budget. “Net position is similar to net worth—it indicates ... long-term financial strength, rather than its available cash,” Vienne said.

New gym proposed for WISD ninth-grade center Willis ISD trustees discussed March 18 a pro- posal for a stand-alone gymnasium at Willis High School, along with the ninth-grade center and its gym, one of the district’s 2024 bond projects. What you need to know WISD Chief Operations Officer Bob Eaton addressed the board about the project. Eaton stated that during the design process, “it was determined that the current ninth-grade center site footprint could not accommodate both gymnasiums.” “The funding source for the ninth-grade center project remains financially stable ... budget management to date has positioned the district to address this need while honoring the commitment made to the voters,” Eaton said. WISD Chief Financial Officer Garrett Matej addressed the board and said the proposal is able to be funded from the bond election.

WISD’s ninth-grade center The facility will be located at Willis High School and primarily support:

instructional programming

student curriculum needs

school-sponsored extracurricular activities, such as athletic classes for credit, health and physical development curriculum, band, dance, cheerleading and junior ROTC

830

SOURCE: WILLIS ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Also on the agenda The board also discussed a new stadium score- board, primarily regarding the cost not going over $200,000. The scoreboard would be 28 by 36 feet, an increase from 19 by 28 feet, Eaton states.

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Built for the next storm From the cover

Two-minute impact

Precinct 2 emergency management building

For years, when west Montgomery County crews needed extra water, cots, blankets or other emergency supplies after a storm, the backup plan was simple but risky: go to Conroe and get it. Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley said that worked when the west side of the county was smaller and easier to navigate. But after Hurricane Harvey, multiple winter storms, oods, tornadoes and a wildre—and with Precinct 2 now home to about 190,000 residents—he said the distance started to become a problem. “One of these days, we weren’t going to be able to get there,” Riley said. “And if we were to get there, it’d be four or ve days after the fact.” Now, Precinct 2 is nearly nished with a $1.4 million emergency management building on its county barn property—paid for by using American Rescue Plan Act funds—that Riley said should be online around May 1. The site includes an 8,000-square-foot building, a 2,300-square-foot canopy, a backup generator and room for emergency supplies such water, blankets and basic medical items. The building is not meant to change what happens while a storm is still hitting, Riley said. Crews still have to wait, assess damage, clear roads and respond to res or debris before opening the site to residents. But he said the goal is to have a base much closer to Magnolia-area communities instead of making repeated supply runs. That matters, he said, because Precinct 2 already knows where trouble usually starts. Spring Creek crossings are often among the rst to ood, and residents along roads such as Egypt Road can end up stuck until water drops. Riley said the new site

$1.4 million construction cost

8,000 sq. ft. building footprint

Equipment: basic medical supplies, water, cots, blankets, batteries, tools, associated gear items and a backup generator

1774

1488

NICHOLS SAWMILL RD.

50 sta members manning the building during disasters

UNITY PARK DR.

Pauline Road re

Disaster declarations in Montgomery County

COVID-19

Hurricane Beryl

There have been multiple disaster declarations in Montgomery County since 2005.

Porter Heights tornado

Hurricane Ike

Tropical Storm Imelda

Winter Storm Uri

Hurricane Harvey

2005

2010

2015

2020

2025

NOTE: THIS TIMELINE IS NOT COMPREHENSIVE.

SOURCES: MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MONTGOMERY COUNTY PRECINCT 2COMMUNITY IMPACT

include hurricanes Ike, Harvey and Beryl, Tropical Storm Imelda and the 2021 Winter Storm Uri. Riley said the building is ultimately about cutting out wasted time. “We’re already here, and it’s already here,” he said. “Everything’s here.”

gives those residents a more direct place to go once roads reopen and response work is underway. He also added that during natural disasters, about 50 sta members will man the emergency building. The need is backed by the county’s disaster history. Montgomery County’s past disaster declarations

What residents should know

Montgomery County emergency buildings

1 Precinct 2 emergency management building ( 10,300 sq. ft. ) 2 Precinct 4 emergency management building ( 10,300 sq. ft. ) 3 Main emergency management building ( 68,000 sq. ft. )

He said each smaller warehouse is designed to hold enough sheltering and point-of-distribution supplies for about 500 people, as well as give the county three stockpiles to pull from during a countywide event. In Precinct 4, Commissioner Matt Gray said the county also recently added a re-rated bulldozer that has already been used to help reghters clear debris and create re breaks during wildre response. He said the goal, like the new ware- houses, is to get response tools closer to where they may be needed. County ocials have also updated emergency management training this year, as previously reported by Community Impact, part of what Millsaps described as a larger eort to prepare for future disasters.

Precinct 2’s building is one piece of a broader county eort to spread emergency resources beyond Conroe. Jason Millsaps, executive director of Montgom- ery County’s Oce of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, said identical supply warehouses are coming online in Precincts 2 and 4 to help reach areas that are harder to serve quickly from Conroe when roads are ooded or blocked by debris. “Instead of having it coming from Conroe and having to transfer [to] the county during either a hurricane, where trees are in blocking roadways [or] ood, where the roads are closed, we have stu in those areas that are harder for us to serve in an immediate situation from Conroe,” Millsaps said.

Willis

Montgomery

105

Conroe

1488

242

Magnolia

99 TOLL

249

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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