culinary kitchen, a fully equipped aerospace engineering lab for SystemsGo rocket fabrication, advanced welding stations, expanded automotive bays, and simulated hospital suites featuring beds, mannequins, and mock clinical environments for health science students. The academic building, library, cafeteria, and CTE wing will open first. The second phase includes a new Aquatic Center, competition gym, renovated fine arts spaces, and the transformation of the Libby Shern Moody Performing Arts Center. PBK Architects is overseeing the academic and CTE components, while Studio Red Architects lead the fine arts design. Gilbane serves as the construction manager, navigating the unique geological and weather challenges of building on a barrier island. “We only build a school once every seventy years,” Neighbors says. “We want this to be a facility the entire community is proud of.” SAFETY AND SECURITY IN A MODERN LEARNING ENVIRONMENT Galveston ISD is also investing in next-generation safety systems. The new high school will feature wearable emergency communication devices that allow teachers to summon help instantly from anywhere on campus—hallways, gyms, cafeterias, playgrounds, just from a classroom intercom. The devices also double as voice-amplification tools, improving clarity of instruction for all students. Similar systems are being phased into middle and elementary schools through bond funding, representing a significant upgrade to district-wide safety infrastructure. LOOKING AHEAD: COLLABORATION, COMMUNITY, AND A RISING TRAJECTORY As Galveston continues to grow—with new hotels, expanded port operations, and rising investment across the island—the school district sees itself as a key contributor to the city’s momentum. GISD is deepening partnerships with UTMB, TAMUG, Galveston College, the Chamber of Commerce, Bay Area economic groups such as Methodist Hospital, and emerging employers like Davie Shipbuilding. 424 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01
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