Cy-Fair ISD debuts new high school and upgrades

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- When you open a brand-new school, you get certain bragging rights. Like an undefeated football team, and the freshmen are the greatest class you've ever had.

Incoming Freshman Esmeralda Martinez said, "It's definitely going to be a great experience." She will be part of the first class at the new Cy-Park High School. The class of 2020 will start their own school traditions in less than two weeks. Martinez was part of the team who selected a crest and mascot, the Tigers.

Martinez added, "They thought it was a powerful figure and represent us the best, we hope to be strong this year."

Six hundred fifty freshmen will start here with a class added each year. The building can hold 3,300 students. Projections show Cy-Fair ISD continuing to grow from 114,811 this school year to almost 123,000 by 2025. Another new high school will open next year.

Eventually the Cy-Park campus will be part of an educational village where a middle school and elementary will be nearby, sharing a kitchen to save food costs for each cafeteria.

Natural light, collaborative classrooms and wi-fi everywhere, along with technology on the walls for teachers and students can be spotted in the three story building that cost $127 million.

Seventy-five percent of the students who will attend come from economically disadvantaged homes. Principal Chris Hecker says he's been dreaming of the first day.

"Everyone that has been involved in our staff understands this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to establish the culture from the ground up," said Hecker. He adds the big question he's been asked from many students, how much time do we have to get from one class to another.

"Just joking with our staff and students, you need extra storage on your Fitbit because you are going to blow out the steps there's no doubt," said Hecker.

For the students like Esmeralda about to step in for class, she says they want to leave a legacy. "We hope to leave a mark. And we'll be remembered as the first generation to graduate successfully," said Martinez.