First of its Kind Energy Institute High School Opens in Houston ISD
Houston, Texas – On August 27th, Houston ISD welcomed students to its newest campus that is often described as the “first of its kind.” The new Energy Institute High School is home to Houston ISD’s magnet program, specializing in project based learning centered on the energy industry. This new campus, established in the “Energy Capital of the World” is helping the district pave the way for industry ready students, well versed in corporate culture.
The district's energy focused academic program began in 2013 with 200 students in a renovated elementary school. The following year, 650 students applied to the school. As the district's enthusiasm for the program grew, parents, teachers, students and industry partners inspired the design for a new building that aligned with instructional goals for Houston ISD.
Energy Institute’s new home is located on Southmore Boulevard in the heart of Houston’s Third Ward. The School spans 116,000 sf and has capacity for 813 students grades 9-12. Here, students engage in learning communities that support project based learning pathways in offshore technology, geosciences, and alternative energy. Comprised of three buildings that converge at a covered outdoor learning courtyard, the campus design is reflective of industry culture that supports collaborative learning. Each building is comprised with educational environments for individualized focused learning, flexible collaboration, and hands-on CTE lab experiences. In the main building the media lab and technology intensive presentation hall will enable students to prepare and deliver professional presentations to global energy leaders.
“The journey working alongside district administrators, teachers, students, and the community is what's notable about this project,” said VLK Principal, Tim Kunz. “Their vision and commitment to the student experience is expressed in the unique design of learning spaces throughout the building. We are grateful to have been a part of the evolution and look forward to watching their students thrive in the energy industry.”
The new campus will have a dedication ceremony on September 19th.