Pasadena ISD Bond Election       Tuesday, November 2, 2004

Expert says quality schools
fueling district's growth

"You give students more than just schools, you give them great schools," said Bob Stein, nationally recognized political analyst and Rice University professor. "With your close proximity to the job market in Houston, affordable housing and the quality of education that you're providing, it has made the area and your schools attractive to many. Your rapid rate of growth is proof of that."

The majority of registered voters surveyed in the study rated the performance of the teachers and the delivery of educational services as either "good" to "excellent."

"That speaks volumes about how people feel about your district and the education you're providing to children," Stein said.

Pasadena ISD has received state and national recognition for its educational programs and student achievement. The sustained high academic performance of many Pasadena schools received high marks as part of a study by The National Center for Educational Accountability and the Just For The Kids organization. The organization said Pasadena schools were among the leaders in the state in sustained high academic performance on assessment tests. Pasadena has also been honored as a Texas Recognized District for six years.

However, Stein said residents surveyed are concerned about the district being able to accommodate the continued wave of growth. The majority of those surveyed acknowledged that they believe the district's enrollment numbers will continue to climb, especially along Beltway 8 and in the south and southwestern portions of the district near Interstate 45. According to demographic studies, enrollment is predicted to climb from 46,133 to more than 59,000 students by 2008.

"When they were asked about the biggest problem facing Pasadena schools, they cited proposed growth and existing facilities to house district students," he said.

Studies have shown that enrollment could reach over 4,400 students at Dobie by 2008. New housing developments could push Pasadena Memorial High School over 2,200 students, while Jessup Elementary could have an enrollment of 1,500 students in the next four years.

The Future Facilities Committee, comprised of 80 community members, examined these issues and presented a proposal to the Board of Trustees to provide relief to these campuses. The proposal included expansions to Dobie and Memorial to bring enrollment within more manageable levels. The committee also proposed the construction of a new elementary school near Blackhawk to relieve overcrowding at Jessup.

Stein said the survey also mirrored these facts. "You're in the middle of a phenomenally fast-growing area," he said. "There is no doubt that these issues will need to be addressed."

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