Dedicated Capital Planning Steering Committee focuses on future

A buzz of enthusiastic energy swept into the boardroom at Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center Tuesday evening.

More than 20 members of the Capital Planning Steering Committee, including HISD staff, kicked off their inaugural meeting.

HISD Superintendent Millard House addressed the newly formed group with a brief overview of the importance of the committee to the success and future of HISD schools and the duties entrusted to them.

“Our expectation is that you will provide strategic direction, guidance, and your feedback during this process,” House said.

The 2021-2022 Capital Planning Steering Committee is an independent citizens committee made up of community members. Committee members are tasked with providing strategic direction, feedback, and guidance to the district as it prepares to address needs identified in the 2021 Facilities Condition Assessment.

The committee will play a critical, strategic role in helping the district accomplish the superintendent’s strategic plan by focusing on equitable access for all students to have safe and modern learning spaces that will help them grow and thrive.

“We appreciate all the members and skills they bring in service to our students and the district,” Chief Operating Officer Wanda Paul said, noting that equity is the lens through which all district policy decisions are made.

Some members remarked that a proposed bond referendum is an important step in addressing long-range planning for the largest district in the state of Texas.

The group discussed a timeline for action and planned to meet again next month.