Boerne - Fair Oaks Ranch | August 2025

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Boerne Fair Oaks Ranch Edition VOLUME 1, ISSUE 4 SEPT. 3OCT. 1, 2025

2025 Education Edition

Supporting schools

Boerne ISD bond projects expand student programs

BY JARRETT WHITENER

In 2022, Boerne ISD residents approved two bond propositions focused on district improvements, a new aquatic center and other facility upgrades. Three years after the bond approval, the majority of the projects have been completed on time and under budget, District Communications Director Maggie Dominguez said. Aside from nishing touches, one of the only major bond projects left to be completed is the construction of the Aquatic Learning Center. At the start of the 2025-26 school year, students have the advantage of expanded high school facilities that house Career and Technical Education, or CTE, courses. Chief Instructional Ocer Larissa Flores said these programs help provide pathways for students who may not pursue a traditional college education. “It keeps kids interested in what they love and what they want to do, and it helps keep kids engaged in the stu they might not always want to be engaged in,” she said.

Boerne ISD oers a variety of vocational and Career Technical Education programs across both high school campuses. 2022 bond funds helped expand campus space to house these programs.

CONTINUED ON 14

COURTESY BOERNE ISD

Also in this issue

Impacts: Check out a new coee roaster servicing the Boerne area (Page 4)

Government: Read the latest update on Kendall County ood debris cleanup eorts (Page 6)

Events: Check out events to attend in the area this fall (Page 18)

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BOERNE FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Impacts

Wandering Oak Coee & Trading Co. This new coee roaster is oering an international lineup of blends and beans. • Opened in June • Serving Boerne area • www.wanderingoakcoffee.com

ADVOGT ST.

ADLER ST.

3351

BRANDT RD.

Coming soon

BLANCO RD.

JOHNS RD.

FAIR OAKS PKWY.

6 Alamo Primary Care The clinic provides traditional primary health services, from physicals and health screenings to preventative medicine and chronic disease management. • Opening TBD • 1411 S. Main St., Boerne • www.alamoprimarycare.com Sophia’s Hope Ranch The nonprot specializing in equine therapy will provide therapeutic treatment and awareness of behavioral and mental disorders. • Opening 2026 • Serving Boerne and surrounding areas • www.sophiashoperanch.org

HOSACKST.

SCHOOL ST.

OAK PARK DR.

CAMP BULLIS RD.

BANDERA RD.

KRONKOSKY ST.

PARKWAY DR.

HIGHLAND DR.

1604

MAP NOT TO SCALE

began, with the full campus expected to open in 2026. • Opened Aug. 13

Now open

Relocations

• 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne • www.stpetersboerneschool.org

1 The Swing Lab The new business oers virtual golf simulations, tournaments, lessons and more by appointment. • Opened July 26 • 635 Hwy. 46, Ste. 204, Boerne • www.theswinglabtx.com 2 Forge Fitness Center This new facility oers a range of equipment, classes and personal training. • Opened July 29 • 7900 Fair Oaks Parkway, Fair Oaks Ranch • www.invitedclubs.com 3 St. Peter Catholic School The founding class of the private Catholic school just

7 Downtown DIY A do-it-yourself arts and crafts studio moved away from Main St. to a bigger space. Patrons can reserve private crafting events and attend classes and workshops. • Relocated in July • 206 W. Highland Drive, Ste. 101, Boerne • www.thingstodoinboerne.com

4 bioworX The wellness business oers a wide selection of treatments ranging from cryotherapy to vitamin injections. • Opened Aug. 25 • 701 S. Main St., Boerne • www.mybioworx.com/location/san-antonio-boerne 5 Pizza Volterra A new pizza and gelato truck stationed next to the Oak of Boerne opened to the public on Labor Day weekend. • Opened Aug. 29 • Main Street, Boerne • www.pizzavolterra.com

Expansions

8 Klein Smokehouse A longtime staple of Main St. is adding a new commercial processing building to allow for shorter wait times for products. • Expanding 2026

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANDREW CREELMAN & JARRETT WHITENER

12 Hill Country Family Services This local nonprot celebrated serving Kendall County for 40 years in July. Programs oered include food and nancial assistance, counseling and life skills training. • 114 W. Advogt St., Boerne • www.hcfstx.org 13 Boerne Sips Nutrition The smoothie and juice bar rebranded from Native Blends and changed ownership. • 104 E. Hosack St., Boerne • www.btxsips.com

• 342 N. Main St., Boerne • www.kleinsmokehaus.com

In the news

9 MURFIT Fitness This gym and tness center is adding more space and new equipment as membership and community

continue to grow. • Expanding fall • 645 S. School St., Ste. 301, Boerne • www.murit.com

In the news

10 Loaded Threads The embroidery shop, which has recently shifted ownership, oers custom apparel.

Worth the trip

14 Hill Country Pet Ranch A pet daycare and boarding center celebrated its 25th anniversary in the Hill Country this summer. They oer dog and cat boarding, training, daycare and more at their scenic location. • 518 Hwy. 46, Boerne • www.hillcountrypetranch.com

Bending Branch Winery The winery recently opened a new tasting room, complete with a bar, kitchen and seating area to host events. • Expanded July 24

• 111 Parkway Drive, Boerne • www.loadedthreads.com

11 EYES of Cresta Bella An optometrist serving Boerne clients celebrated their 5-year anniversary. They oer glasses, contact lenses

• 142 Lindner Branch Trail, Comfort • www.bendingbranchwinery.com

and regular eye health check-ups. • 19739 W. I-10, Ste. 112, San Antonio • www.eyesofcrestabella.com

L uxury meets L egendary

Estate-Style Living in Boerne With a record-breaking turnout for the 2025 Parade of Homes hosted here, it’s clear that everyone is talking about George’s Ranch. Just four miles from Boerne’s historic Main Street and named for a legendary Texas Ranger, this gated community oers 1-acre homesites, new and custom homes, and room to live large across 1,140 scenic acres. Plan your visit today and stake your claim on luxury Hill Country living. Homes from the $900s | Custom Homesites from the $200s | GeorgesRanch.com

BOERNE FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Government

Kendall County debris cleanup begins

1 Alpha 2 Bravo 5 Echo Kendall County flood debris cleanup phases: Kendall County 3 Charlie 4 Delta

said there is no indication that the remaining two missing individuals are within the county. Cleanup efforts are expected to take 8-10 weeks and move from west to east. Stolarczyk said efforts in western parts of the county are expected to take longer due to those areas being the most impacted by flood damage. What you need to know Residents cleaning up debris must separate it into the following categories: • Electronics: TVs, computers, stereos, phones • Large appliances: refrigerators, washers, dryers, air conditioning units • Hazardous waste: paint, oil, pesticides, cleaning supplies, batteries • Vegetative debris: branches, logs, limbs • Construction debris: drywall, carpet, lumber, furniture, building materials

Flood debris cleanup along the Guadalupe River is underway in Kendall County as of July 30, County Judge Shane Stolarczyk said during a July 29 press conference. Cleanup efforts follow multiple weeks of search and recovery initiatives throughout the county fol- lowing the catastrophic flooding event during the July 4 weekend. Stolarczyk said Kendall County was fortunate not to lose any residents from the flooding, but did sustain property damage. “We as a community would not be where we are today without the extraordinary volunteer efforts, generous contributions and emotional support extended to our citizens,” Stolarczyk said. What’s happening? Primary and secondary searches along the river in the county have been completed and deemed acceptable for cleanup efforts to begin. During search and rescue efforts, nine victims were recovered within the county, and Stolarczyk

SISTERDALE RD.

281

GUADALUPE RIVER

473

3351

474

Stolarczyk stated that the cleanup will come at no cost to residents or the county at this time. “The road to recovery will be a long process, but together the Hill Country will rebuild stronger than ever,” Stolarczyk said.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Public hearing dates set for tax rate, $181 million budget in Boerne Boerne City Council on Aug. 12 set the public hearing dates for the fiscal year 2025-26 budget and the tax rate to support city finances. Breaking it down Finance Director Sarah Buckelew said the annual budget is around $181 million , and Capital Improvement Projects, or CIPs, make up around 32% of expenditures. Planned CIPs cost around $57 million , with 39% of those projects funded through bond debt approved by voters in 2022. The general fund, which covers daily opera- tions and expenses, makes up $43 million of the budget, while city utilities are expected to cost around $88 million . City utilities revenue comes from rate payers rather than property taxes. The $181 million budget is divided into three categories, including general funds, special revenue funds and utility funds. Special reve- nue funds add up to around $50 million in the proposed budget. Fair Oaks Ranch funds $7.93M in projects Fair Oaks Ranch City Council on Aug. 7 awarded the bid for the sale of $7.93 million in certificate of obligation bonds, which will be used to fund utility projects. A closer look The sales make two of three issuances, following $3.7 million issued in 2024. In total, $18 million was projected for water and wastewater projects. On June 5, Director of Finance Summer Flemming said the city may issue more bonds in fiscal year 2026-27. Bonds will be repaid from Water and Wastewater Debt Service Fees. According to agenda documents, the estimated Water Debt Service Fee would go from $23.85 in FY 2024-25 to $23.89 in FY 2025-26, and the Wastewater Debt Service Fee would go from $17.03 to $16.91.

Boerne park project moves forward Boerne’s new park is moving forward following City Council approval of changes to the construction contract on Aug. 12. The overview The guaranteed maximum cost of the first phase will be $16.5 million , according to agenda documents. Originally, the entire project’s estimated cost was around $13 mil- lion , funded through 2022 bonds. Around $3 million in funding will be provided through grants and the Capital Improvement Fund. City Manager Ben Thatcher said the original cost increased due to inflation. Boerne Communications Director Chris Shadrock said construction is slated for September.

Budget breakdown

General Fund: $43M Utility Funds: $88M Special Revenue Funds: $50M

$181M total budget

SOURCE: CITY OF BOERNE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

Post Oak development agreement sees reduction in lot density The lot density of the Post Oak development in Fair Oaks Ranch has been reduced following city council approval of an amended development agreement on Aug. 7. The details During the meeting, City Manager Scott Huizenga shared the details of the amendment to the devel- opment agreement, or DA, which was approved in May. Under the amended agreement, the total density was reduced from 278 to 227 lots. “Part of what necessitated this reduction of lots was the drainage standards,” Huizenga said. “This amended DA adds a section that requires the developer to follow the current UDC standards for drainage.” The Post Oak development has been planned in Zooming in To support the budget, City Council will need to approve the tax rate for property owners. City staff said the proposed rate is the same as the previous fiscal year at $0.4716 per $100 valuation. While the tax rate is planned to remain at the same level, taxes paid to the city will depend on property appraisal values. Buckelew said the average home value within the city increased from $460,000 to $485,000. A property valued at $485,000 would pay around $2,287 in annual city taxes. The final public hearing and adoption is planned for Sept. 9.

SISTERDALE CUTOFF

Northside Community Park

ADLER ST.

Reduced lot density Under the new development agreement, the total number of lots has decreased from 278 to 227.

Old agreement

New agreement

Phase 2 Phase 3 Phase 4

Phase 1

SOURCE: CITY OF FAIR OAKS RANCH/COMMUNITY IMPACT

the community since 2013, formerly known as The Reserve. In the original agreement, the develop- ment included around 635 lots. Approval of the updated agreement reduced the lot sizes down to 278, making each lot a minimum of one acre.

BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Transportation

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Fair Oaks Ranch plans 2 water main projects An open house for Fair Oaks Ranch water main projects was held on Aug. 13, covering two scheduled projects. The details The open house will cover two water line proj- ects, including the line at Willow Wind Drive and Red Bud Hill, and the line at Rolling Acres Trail. According to fact sheets released by city staff, both lines have a history of main breaks. The Willow Wind Drive line has broken approximately 8-12 times since 2016, while the Rolling Acres Trail main has broken four times since 2016. Replacing the lines will reduce operational and maintenance costs to the city and help minimize disruptions to residents using water from those mains. The two projects are planned in conjunction at a combined cost of around $1.63 million , paid

Boerne staff plans capital improvements During Boerne budget meetings, city staff presented capital improvement projects, or CIPs, planned for fiscal year 2025-26, including the beginning of Adler Road reconstruction. The details The Adler Road project was supported by voters in a 2022 bond election. Prior to the election, the road received a Pavement Condition Index score of 22 out of 100. The project includes widening the street to three lanes with a center turn lane from Esser Road to Main Street, a shared-use path and a sidewalk, the city’s website states. Other CIP projects cover a new park, utility improvements and a new fire station. In total, the city plans for $34.2 million in CIP funding during the fiscal year.

Willow Wind Drive and Red Bud Hill

WILLOW WIND DR.

SEABISCUIT DR.

RED BUD HILL

RAINTREE WOODS DR.

Rolling Acres Trail

WILD OAK HILL

SCARTEEN

SILVER SPUR TRL.

ROLLING ACRES TRL.

for through Certificate of Obligation bond funds. During construction, the sections of roadway will have temporary lane closures.

Here’s One...

Let’s Measure What Matters Scan to Learn More

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Education Edition

2025

Readers, welcome to your annual CI Education Edition! In this edition, our lead story gives an update on the Boerne ISD 2022 bond projects. The Aquatic Learning Center is expected to open by the end of the year. We also feature the Boerne Education Foundation, a non-profit that raises money for BISD employees and students. Check out the great variety of events over the next month on page 18.

Discover the latest local education trends in this special guide.

This edition highlights Boerne ISD, which has received high ratings from the Texas Education Agency, and emphasizes the district’s commitment to safety and security. Additionally, the guide features services offered by the Boerne Education Foundation and provides a detailed update on bond projects that were approved by voters in 2022.

Heather Demere San Antonio Market President hdemere@ communityimpact.com

Sierra Martin Managing Editor smartin@ communityimpact.com

For relevant news and daily updates, subscribe to our free email newsletter!

Boerne ISD receives 6th consecutive A-rating from the TEA receive special instruction and related devel- opmental, corrective, supportive or evaluative services for the current school year as reported by districts and on STAAR test answer documents. Ratings show all but four BISD campuses Accountability ratings in the San Antonio area

Boerne ISD received its sixth consecutive A-rat- ing from the Texas Education Agency, according to A-F Accountability ratings released on Aug. 15. Ratings were released for both the 2023-24 and 2024-25 school years. The details According to an Aug. 15 news release, Boerne ISD earned an “A” with 28 Distinction Designations in 2024. In 2025, Boerne ISD earned an “A” with 27 Distinction Designations. Across the state, 18% of campuses received an A rating in 2023-24, which increased to 23% in 2024-25. Overall district data represents 11,041 students. Economically disadvantaged students make up around 18.8% of the district population, while 18% of students are identified under special education, and 7.1% of students are enrolled as emergent bilingual learners. TEA defines special education as students who

According to data from the Texas Education Agency, 31% of campuses statewide got a higher rating in 2024- 25 than 2023-24.

receiving an A-rating, with Viola Wilson Elemen- tary, Curington Elementary, Herff Elementary and Kendall Elementary all receiving a B-rating. “As the state of Texas keeps challenging districts to create educational experiences that set students up for future success, we are proud that Boerne ISD has been able to rise to the occasion,” Super- intendent Kristen Craft said in the release. “Our exceptional teachers and staff consistently go the extra mile to make magic happen in our class- rooms, and we are grateful for their dedication. Our theme for this year is ‘Legacy Built, Future Ready,’ and today’s TEA scores embody that theme: Boerne ISD has a proud history, and we are helping every student reach a bright future.”

2022-23 Rating

2023-24 Rating

2024-25 Rating

District

Boerne ISD

Comal ISD

Comfort ISD

Judson ISD

Medina Valley ISD B

New Braunfels ISD B

North East ISD

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT NOTE: THIS LIST IS NOT COMPREHENSIVE.

BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Education

BISD focuses on safety, security leading into new school year

As a new school year gets underway, Boerne ISD safety and security sta are working to ensure students and sta can approach education in a safe environment. Coming into the 2025-26 school year, House Bill 33 required each school system to have at least one breaching tool and one ballistic shield avail- able at each campus, marking a new unfunded mandate that the district was required to comply with. Rick Goodrich, chief of safety and security, told Community Impact the school district has been ahead of the curve when it comes to safety mea- sures, utilizing local partnerships and resources to provide the best school security. What’s happening? Partnerships with Boerne, Fair Oaks Ranch and Kendall County provide the district with school resource ocers at each campus. Goodrich said these partnerships allow the district to access the best sta, which would not be possible if the district operated its own police department. “We wouldn’t be able to recruit and retain the same level of ocers that we are able to contract for,” he said. While responding to emergencies and calls is a priority for the district, Goodrich said the team has taken the initiative to work on prevention. Through various methods of monitoring social media and other forms of communication, the district can identify potential threats or scenarios before they come to fruition. These preventative eorts help keep BISD students safe and help students in need of mental

Safety snapshot

threat instances in 2024-25 42 BISD campuses 13 school resource ocers 9

SOURCE: BOERNE ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Boerne ISD safety sta completing CPR classes in preparation for the school year.

COURTESY BOERNE ISD

BISD, said predictive policing is a challenge, but district sta are focused on evolving the way they approach student safety. “We are trying to predict and show these signs that may have been missed by school personnel because they don’t have the resources that we have and our experiences,” Gault said. Ultimately, the goal of the district is to ensure all sta and students can be educated in a safe environment, Goodrich said.

health support and other care. “In my three years, we haven’t lost a child to self-harm, violence or overdose,” Goodrich said. Each of these initiatives through the school dis- trict has made BISD a staple of safety across the state, and district sta have led training programs to help other districts and groups enhance safety, Goodrich said. What they’re saying Isiah Gault, threat intelligence specialist for

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Boerne ISD calls VATRE to supplement sta salaries Boerne ISD trustees on Aug. 18 called a Vot- er-Approval Tax Rate Election, which will help generate additional revenue for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget. Wes Scott, chief nancial and operations ocer, said these additional funds will be used to supple- ment salary increases for district sta as well as provide a funding mechanism for future capital improvements. Breaking it down The upcoming tax rate is planned to be $1.0109 per $100 valuation, which is a two-cent increase over the current district tax rate of $0.9909 per $100 valuation. While the ballot language must legally state that the new rate is an increase, data from the school district shows an average decrease in total school district taxes paid by property owners. According to the Aug. 18 news release, Boerne ISD is one of the lowest-funded school districts in Texas based on per-student state funding. Alongside being a low-funded school, the district ranks 15th out of 21 for starting teacher pay when comparing local ISDs. This rank drops to 16 at the 5-year mark and to 19 at the 10-year mark. Nearly one in ve Boerne ISD teachers left the district last year, many for higher-paying positions in nearby districts, according to the release. Looking ahead Early voting begins Oct. 20 , and continues through Oct. 31 . Election Day is Nov. 4 . The last day to register to vote in the election is Oct. 6 .

Cell phones banned at Boerne ISD schools At the start of the school year, districts across the state were required to implement a cell phone and electronic device ban. For Boerne ISD and other districts, this ban means students cannot use personal communication devices on school property. The details According to the approved policy, devices must be turned o and stored during normal school hours. Parents may reach students by contacting the front oce. Students who violate this policy or any regulations shall be subject to discipline per the board-adopted Student Code of Conduct, and an authorized employee shall conscate the device. For students who need devices for specic circumstances, the policy accommodates the following scenarios: • The student’s use is necessary for imple- mentation of the student’s individualized education program, a 504 plan, or a similar program or plan • The student’s use is required due to a documented need based on a directive from a qualied physician • The student’s use is necessary to comply with a health or safety requirement imposed by law or as part of the district or campus safety protocols

"[The VATRE] is going to be very benecial, and it is going to be an opportunity for our community to come together for our sta." KRISTI SCHMIDT BOARD PRESIDENT

Boerne ISD historical tax rates

Year-over-year tax rates in Boerne ISD have decreased. While the VATRE is an increase, residents are expected to see lower tax bills.

$1.5

-25.34% decrease

$0.5

SOURCE: BOERNE ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Homestead exemptions increased for school taxes Following the 2025 state legislative session, the homestead exemption for school district taxes was increased, meaning a home’s taxable valuation will decrease. What you need to know property value, meaning taxes paid will be depen- dent on individual property appraisals. For those who are over the age of 65 or dis-

Residents

Residents over 65 or disabled

Increased exemption

$40K

$50K

Average taxes paid per property

abled, the average taxable value in FY 2025-26 is $428,000, resulting in an average bill of $4,246 . Homeowners over the age of 65 or disabled have the advantage of a frozen tax rate, meaning their rates cannot increase, even if the VATRE is approved.

$4.9K

$4.2K Average savings compared to FY 2024-25

For scal year 2025-26, the average taxable value on Boerne ISD residential properties is $488,000 . At the proposed VATRE rate, a property owner would pay $4,938 in annual taxes. These calculations use the average taxable

$80

$672

SOURCE: BOERNE ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

BOERNE FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Education

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

Boerne Education Foundation: directly impacting the classroom Founded in 1997, the Boerne Education Founda- tion has been supporting not just students, but also the teachers that play such an important role in the classroom. “Our sole purpose is to raise money for the classroom,” said Nicole Gallegos, president of the Boerne Education Foundation, or BEF. The BEF is a nonprot organization led by volun- teers that raises community funds and awareness for schools in Boerne ISD. Gallegos has always been surrounded by educa- tion, with her mother teaching for four decades and having children who went to schools in Boerne ISD. “I grew up as the kid of a teacher,” Gallegos said. “My heart is with education, and it’s just been a really great way to give back.”

Additionally, anyone in the public can donate to the foundation, a task that Gallegos said is a great way for citizens to give back to the community. What residents should know Gallegos said the BEF gave out 700 gift cards worth $75 to teachers across the district to buy important supplies to enhance their classrooms ahead of the current school year. By writing Teacher Innovation Grants, Gallegos said educators can come up with ideas to help complement and enhance their curriculums. They must follow principles of critical thinking, commu- nication, collaboration and creativity. “It’s a really neat way for us to get that impact right in the classroom,” Gallegos said. “Seeing that benet go right to the kids and the teachers.” From new physics programs and equipment to buying important new books, Gallegos said she’s seen countless benets brought to students by these grants from the BEF. During the 2024-25 school year, the BEF also raised over $575,000 to help support and uplift classrooms in schools throughout Boerne ISD.

These are some of the ways the BEF provides funds to the classroom:

Teacher Innovation Grants

Gift cards

Capital disbursement

District employee givebacks

Community events and fundraisers

Funds raised by the BEF go directly toward students and teachers in schools across the Boerne area.

BOERNE EDUCATION FOUNDATIONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

What’s next This upcoming school year, Gallegos said she wants to raise even more money, upwards of $700,000. “We have a lot of really fun ideas to continue growing the organization in a meaningful way,” Gallegos said. Additionally, Gallegos said the BEF is looking to completely fund an Operation Support Specialist position within Boerne ISD that will work directly with the organization to further their eorts into the future.

Boerne

235 Johns Road, Boerne https://tinyurl.com/bisd-ef

The BEF is comprised of 25 voting board members and an Executive Director that works directly with Boerne ISD.

PHOTOS COURTESY BOERNE EDUCATION FOUNDATION

BOERNE 1313 S Main St (830) 249-0115

DOMINION 24603 I-10 (210) 310-3200

VINEYARD 1309 N Loop 1604 W (210) 408-8206

Supporting schools From the cover

The overview

Other campus enhancements included library remodels, student furniture updates, technology additions for classrooms, new buses, outdoor projects and other facility improvements to make campuses more accessible, Dominguez said. Director of CTE Heather Willis said campus improvements help the district give students an edge for their futures. “We focus on this region because we have had many community members say they want their children to come back here to live and be able to afford to live here,” Willis said.

around 150 ninth-grade students. Through vocational education and CTE programs, students can earn certifications and gain hands- on experience while in high school, which can help advance their college education or enable them to enter the workforce, Dominguez said. Alongside high school expansions, the district’s 8th elementary school, Viola Wilson Elementary, was completed in 2024, offering a campus to residents on the western portion of I-10 in Boerne.

Campus improvement projects in the 2022 bond included expansions at both district high schools, increasing the number of classrooms and space for programs. These expansions helped add students to the Pathways in Technology Early College High School, or P-Tech, program. Boerne ISD has two P-Tech programs—cybersecurity and health science, Flores said. Christine Poulis, director of advanced academics and college, career and military readiness, said in April that the program was expected to draw in

Bond project timeline

2023

2024

2025

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

Spring 2023 • Campus improvements begin • Viola Wilson Elementary breaks ground

Fall 2023 • Aquatic Learning Center breaks ground

Fall 2024 • Viola Wilson Elementary opens

Winter 2024 • Bond projects reviewed • Library project unveiled

Spring 2025 • Champion High School expansion completed

Winter 2025 • Aquatic Learning Center projected opening

SOURCE: BOERNE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The cost

Dominguez told Community Impact that completed bond projects have come in at or under their projected budgets, resulting in savings for the district. During the Aug. 18 board of trustees meeting, Chief Financial and Operations Officer Wes Scott said the district was on track to pay off debt early, resulting in less interest paid.

Campus expansion costs

Budgeted project cost

Actual project cost

Viola Wilson elementary school

Champion high school expansion

$41,470,704

$41,467,438

$18,229,644

Middle school expansions

Aquatic learning center

$13,948,772

$9,936,056

$9,921,157

Total for all projects

Boerne high school expansion

$12,209,943

$10,756,050

$165,640,000

$160,843,512

NOTE: TOTAL INCLUDES EVERY PROJECT FUNDED THROUGH THE 2022 BOND

SOURCE: BOERNE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Moving forward

The approach

The expansion at Champion High School focused on providing spaces for CTE classes, including business classes, technology classes and other programs. For high school students in the district, shut- tle buses run between each campus, allowing students to take classes at either high school. This system allows students to take a course offered at only one of the high schools, such as health science offered at Boerne High School; or cybersecurity offered at Champion High School. Willis said that through community partner- ships with nonprofit organizations and local busi- nesses, the district can provide more resources for students. Willis said all school districts are focused on student success and employability, and utilizing CTE programs helps students achieve those goals. “We know on their resumes, CTE helps them retain an occupation, and we want our kids to be employable after graduation,” Willis said.

CTE program enrollment

One of the final major bond projects to be completed is the Aquatic Learning Center, located on Herff Ranch Boulevard behind Champion High School and next to Cibolo Creek Elementary School. While this project was originally projected to be completed in 2024, Dominguez said multiple delays altered the completion timeline. Despite contracting and construction challenges, the new facility is still projected to come in under budget. In 2023, the district signed with Tegrity Contractors Inc. to build the nearly $10 million complex, which broke ground in September 2023. During a May meeting, the board of trustees was informed that the center had a substantial completion date of May 28, which did not materialize. In a May special meeting, trustees authorized the superintendent to oversee the aquatic learning center project and ensure the completion of the bond-funded facility. This process led to an agreement with a new contractor to complete the project. While the center is under construction, students on the swim team and other aquatic programs utilize the pools at Boerne City Park and other facilities. Dominguez said the Aquatic Learning Center is expected to be completed by the end of the calendar year, planning for a ribbon- cutting in December. Remaining work includes finishing the facility pools.

Program

Students

831 631 832 448 630 202 240 250 319 376 374 417

Health science

Agriculture

Education and training

STEM

Hospitality and tourism

Human services

Arts and communication

Business management and administration

Law, public safety

Finance

Transportation

Architecture and construction

91 38

Information technology

Marketing

SOURCE: BOERNE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

What they’re saying

“It doesn’t matter how fantastic your bells and whistles are, the person in the classroom is what matters.”

“Just like athletics and [University Interscholastic League], these programs exist to give kids opportunities

and engagement.” LARISSA FLORES, CHIEF INSTRUCTIONAL OFFICER

HEATHER WILLIS, DIRECTOR OF CTE

Fall Festival A MEMBER APPRECIATION EVENT ARE YOU A BEC MEMBER? YOU’RE INVITED TO OUR

SAT, OCT. 18 8:30 AM - NOON ENCHANTED SPRINGS RANCH BOERNE

Scan for more details and to RSVP!

BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Education

BY HANNAH NORTON

Teachers now have more disciplinary authority House Bill 6 gives public school teachers more discretion to remove students from the classroom if they are repeatedly disruptive or threaten the safety of others. The change comes after nearly half of Texas public school teachers cited disci- pline issues as a top workplace challenge in 2022, according to the Texas Education Agency. What you need to know The law, which took eect immediately when Gov. Greg Abbott signed it on June 20, allows schools to suspend students of any age who engage in “repeated or signicant” disruptions, reversing a 2017 state law that generally prohib- ited schools from suspending students in pre-K through second grade. If students in kindergarten through third grade are sent home for behavioral

Districts to level-set high school GPAs Texas school districts will soon be required to use a standard system to calculate high school students’ grade point averages. At a glance Senate Bill 1191, which became law June 20, directs the Texas Education Agency to create a new GPA standard “as soon as practicable.” The system must give equal weight to advanced placement, international baccalaureate and dual enrollment courses. “It most likely won’t impact kids that are currently enrolled in high school, … because it’s going to take a while to make sure every- one is on the same page,” said Bob Popinski, who leads the policy team for public school advocacy group Raise Your Hand Texas.

“A lot of the problems we see with our kids in high school is because they did not have consequences, none whatsoever, when

they were younger.” BILL AUTHOR REP. JEFF LEACH, RPLANO

issues, schools must provide documentation explaining their decision. HB 6 gives schools the option to place students in an in-school suspension for as long as they see t. State law previously mandated that students could not be suspended for more than three school days, whether they were inside a school building or at home. The three-day time limit on out-of- school suspensions remains unchanged.

New law bans cellphone usage in all K12 schools When Texas public school students return to campus this fall, they will be prohibited from using cellphones, smart watches and other personal communication devices throughout the

School districts could:

the cellphone ban. “We want our kids to focus on academics, such as math, science and reading, and the reality is, these phones are a distraction. ... Schools cite growing incidents of cyberbullying due to these phones,” bill author Rep. Caroline Fairly, RAmarillo, said in March. HB 1481 includes exceptions for students with medical needs or special education accommoda- tions, and does not apply to devices supplied by school districts for academic purposes.

• Purchase pouches to store devices during the school day • Ask students to keep devices in their lockers or backpacks

school day. The details

Texas’ 2026-27 budget includes $20M in grants to help districts implement the law.

Gov. Greg Abbott signed House Bill 1481 into law on June 20, giving school districts 90 days to adopt new electronic device policies, including disciplinary measures for students who violate

SOURCES: TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE, TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Environment

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

The Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, or GBRA, is continuing its work on a multi- year, basin-wide conservation plan geared toward protecting six freshwater species. “We would be one of the first river authorities to cover the entire river basin in our jurisdiction under a habitat conservation plan,” Nathan Pence, GBRA’s executive manager of environmental science, told Community Impact . A habitat conservation plan is a tool within the Endangered Species Act that describes impacts to endangered species and quantifies the positive things to offset those impacts, also referred to as mitigation. “Any time you protect resources for habitat or water flow for one species, you’re often helping an entire ecosystem,” Pence said. The freshwater species covered under the GBRA develops plan for habitat conservation

Digging deeper

is not sustainable because it is subject to lawsuit, or you could have changes made to your permit- ting,” he said. GBRA received two $1 million grants from the Department of the Interior through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Section 6 Program for planning in 2019 and 2023. However, Pence said the overall cost of the plan will be determined by the amount of mitigation needed, and GBRA is still negotiating with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “What one person does upstream affects some- body else downstream ... so the more people that participate, the better it actually is for the river and the species,” he said.

Although GBRA diverts water and conducts activities through lawful permits received from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, there are still activities that the entity conducts that could impact endangered species. Pence said the process will take the authority’s water diversion permits and enter them under the habitat conservation plan so those species would be protected. It would also protect the authority from any endangered species litigation or endan- gered species challenges to its water permits. “If you are not in compliance with the environ- mental laws in Texas or from the federal govern- ment, then the water that’s being used and the resource that’s being used from a legal standpoint

Gillespie

Blanco

Travis

Lee

Bastrop

Hays

PLUM CREEK

BLANCO RIVER

Fayette

Real

Bandera

SAN MARCOS RIVER

plan include the following: • Eastern Black Rail (bird)

Colorado

• Whooping Crane (bird) • Guadalupe Darter (fish) • False Spike (mussel) • Guadalupe Orb (mussel) • Guadalupe Fatmucket (mussel)

Bexar

Lavaca

GUADALUPE RIVER

Uvalde

Medina

Wilson

Jackson

Frio Species covered under the plan Guadalupe River Basin Federally endangered State threatened HCP area Zavala Atascosa

The authority is collaborating with other entities to develop the plan, including: • Kerr County • City of Gonzales • City of Kerrville • Canyon Regional Water Authority

Karnes

Goliad

Live Oak McMullen 6 Guadalupe Darter Fish: 4 Whooping Crane 5 Eastern Black Rail Bird:

1 Guadalupe Fatmucket 2 False Spike 3 Guadalupe Orb Mussels:

Bee

Refugio

Dimmit

La Salle

SOURCE: GUADALUPE-BLANCO RIVER AUTHORITY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

NOTE: THE MAP SHOWS WHERE SPECIES WITHIN THE PLAN ARE TYPICALLY FOUND.

Looking ahead

Pence said the ITP allows an entity to keep conducting its activities, but also indicates that the entity has taken endangered species impacts into consideration and is operating within the lawful bounds of the Endangered Species Act.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, according to a July 30 habitat conservation plan public stakeholder meeting presentation. Following draft submittal, GBRA would need to apply and receive an Incidental Take Permit, or ITP, from the federal government.

The next public stakeholder meeting will be in spring 2026. The meeting will go over the mitigation efforts for the species identified in the plan, Pence said. Officials hope to have a draft of the plan complete by summer 2026 to submit to the

BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Events

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

Comfort Art Festival Make the trip over to Comfort to experience the works of local Hill Country artists outside local businesses and restaurants. Works include oil paintings, photography, watercolor, glasswork and more. • Sept. 20, 10 a.m. • Free • Downtown Historic District, Seventh St., Comfort • www.gnocomforttx.com

Boerne Book Festival Head to the library for this festival celebrating all things literature. Listen to presentations, participate in discussion panels and get books signed by storied authors.

• Oct. 4, 10 a.m. • Free • Patrick Heath Public Library, 451 N. Main St., Boerne • www.boernebookfest.com

Rudi & the Rudiments Catch this acoustic and eclectic group of musicians to celebrate the fall equinox as they use instruments such as Tibetan bowls, a Native American flute and the dulcimer. • Sept. 20, 7 p.m. • $35, $40 at the door • Cave Without a Name, 325 Kreutzberg Road, Boerne • www.cavewithoutaname.com/content/ fall-equinox-rudi-rudiments-2025 BEC Foundation 7th Annual Golf Tournament The Bandera Electric Cooperative is hosting a golf tournament that will include breakfast, a putting contest and a closing reception. All proceeds will go towards relief funds for Hill Country flooding victims. • Sept. 22, 9 a.m. • $250 (individual registration) • Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club, 7900 Fair Oaks Parkway, Fair Oaks Ranch • www.becgolf.com

• Oct. 4, 10 a.m. • Free • Boerne City Lake Park, 1 City Lake Road, Boerne • www.ci.boerne.tx.us/2469/Parks-Calendar Abstract Expressionism Oil Painting Join artist Pauly Tamez and learn the basics of abstract art, oil painting and unlocking expressionist creativity. • Oct. 4, 10 a.m. • $85 • AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road, Boerne • www.hccarts.org/product/abstract-expressionism 9th Annual Hill Country’s Got Talent Both a fundraiser for the Boerne Community Theater and a chance for residents to show off their skills, check out this year’s show featuring prizes, silent auctions, food and more. • Oct. 4, 6 p.m. • $25 (youth), $40 (adults) • Jones Event Center, 43360 I-10 W., Boerne • www.boernetheatre.org/hill-countrys-got-talent

September

Lost Oak Wine Dinner Enjoy a four-course, gourmet meal along with wines from the Lost Oak Cellars at a scenic resort in the Hill Country. Celebrate the work that goes into winemaking and fine dining. • Sept. 9, 6 p.m. • $150 • Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort, 1 Resort Way, Boerne • Facebook: Lost Oak Cellars 9/11 Ceremony A ceremony honoring the victims and first responders of the 9/11 attacks will take place on the morning of the event’s anniversary at the Boerne Veterans Plaza. • Sept. 11, 10 a.m. • Free • Veterans Plaza, 801 S. Main St., Boerne • www.alpost313boernetx.org/home Second Saturday Volunteering Help maintain the Cibolo Nature Center gardens, and learn more about gardening and nature. • Sept. 13, 9 a.m. • Free • Cibolo Nature Center, 140 City Park Road, Boerne • www.cibolo.org/calendar/secondsaturday Style Show and Shopping Event This festival is celebrating local businesses, retailers and designers with shopping and a style show. Proceeds benefit the Kendall County Women’s Shelter. • Sept. 20, 6 p.m. • $65, $85 at the door • The Bevy Hotel, 101 Herff Road, Boerne • www.boerneretailersstyleandshop.com/event-info

October

RECSA 34th Annual Council Open Tournament

Haunted House Workshop Kick off spooky season with an arts and crafts workshop focused on creating an autumn-themed wooden birdhouse. Use paint and other small trinkets to craft a creative structure. Registration required. • Oct. 2, 6 p.m. • $39.95 (all materials included) • The Downtown DIY, 206 West Highland Drive, Boerne • www.thingstodoinboerne.com Family Camp Out and Fishing Tournament Spend a night in the great outdoors at Boerne City Lake and participate in a family-friendly fishing tournament. Preregistration required.

The Real Estate Council of San Antonio is hosting its annual golf tournament featuring a full round of golf, games, prizes and more. • Oct. 6, 12 p.m. • $750 (team of 2) • Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club, 7900 Fair Oaks Parkway, Fair Oaks Ranch

• www.recsanantonio.com/event/ recsa-34th-annual-council-open

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