a former dropout prevention center into a hub known as Empower Academy in partnership with Harris County Department of Education. The facility now houses a virtual school, a dropout prevention program with hybrid scheduling options, a large childcare center for staff, expanded ESL and citizenship classes, and partnerships with the Houston Food Bank to support community needs. “We are using the infrastructure we’ve had to modernize it, to change the whole philosophy, and make it something that’s open and available for our community and our older adult students that need to learn, maybe in a different setting,” highlights Jackson.“We’ve got several businesses that are really supporting these endeavors.” Looking ahead, Goose Creek CISD plans to expand its maritime program through San Jacinto College, offering students a Level 1 certificate and U.S. Coast Guard credentials before graduation.“That is a goal, not only for our district and our community, but for Port Houston. There’s a definite need for that,” remarks Jackson. Port Houston actually donated close to $10,000 to help support our campus that’s involved in that.” The district is also exploring new process technology and logistics programs to meet the needs of major employers.“That’s a huge industry in our area. We want to increase work and options for that,” Miller says. Another focus is growing the Future Teacher Academy. The district is partnering with University of Houston Clear Lake, Sam Houston State, Stephen F. Austin State, Lamar University, and Lee College to create a pathway for students who want to teach. Graduates of the academy will finish high school with 42 college hours and receive a guaranteed interview in the district once they complete their bachelor’s degree. LAN brings more than 50 years of program management expertise to Texas K-12 bond programs, delivering projects on time, on budget, and with lasting value. As a proud partner to Goose Creek CISD, LAN managed the 2013 and 2019 bond programs—delivering new schools, CTE and STEM facilities, athletic improvements, transportation and operations centers, major renovations, and significant savings for the district. www.lan-inc.com 256 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 12
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