One of the many things the Highland Park Independent School District is known

for is tradition. Whether it be our reputation for stellar academics, sports or service within

the community, tradition is something that everyone in the Park Cities hold close to their

heart. Recently, the voice of the majority of people in the Park Cities has been heard, and

all the elementary schools in the district will be torn down and rebuilt, and a new

elementary school will be added. This is a 361.4 million dollar bond that will take five

years to complete. More than 8,200 votes were cast in this bond election.

“It’s kind of upsetting that my elementary school is being torn down because

there is so much history and memories in that small building. I only went there for fourth

grade after I switched over from Bradfield, but all the teachers and students were so

welcoming and kind. The atmosphere in the school was so positive, and I loved learning

while I was there. However, I know that even more kids will be able to get a higher

quality education and the spirit of the original Hyer building will never die,” junior Sarah

Caffey said.

Although the transformation of the district is very drastic, it will bring an

opportunity for more classes, which will result in fewer students per class, so that each

student will get the attention that they need. The classrooms will be more innovative and

the kids’ ideas will be able to flourish creatively.

“Personally, I think that completely tearing down each school is a little bit

extreme. I feel like they could achieve their goal just by renovating each school. The

money that is going towards this project could’ve gone into making more restaurants and

shops in the community,” junior Liza Goodson said.

Overall, the opinions on this situation are very diverse. Some students are

feeling sad and sentimental about the destruction of their elementary schools, because it’s

where the have a lot of their childhood memories. This is where the beginning of

education first comes from and the memories inside each building are some that students

will never forget. Others are thrilled about the rebuilding of each school and are excited

to see what the future of the Park Cities holds.