Alexander High School’s Performing Arts Building Agricultural Science Building and Athletic Project official Groundbreaking
Written by admin, Sep 15, 2016, Comments Off
Courtesy Carmen Rendon,
(Laredo, Texas)-United ISD began a new chapter today with a formal groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of the construction for John B. Alexander High School Performing Arts Building, Agricultural Science Building FFA Complex and numerous Athletic Projects.
Leading the groundbreaking was United ISD Board of Trustees, Superintendent, Mr. Roberto J. Santos and John B. Alexander High School Principal, Mr. Ernesto Sandoval. Also in attendance were various local and state officials as well as our very own City of Laredo Mayor, Pete Saenz.
This project will consist of two phases and is projected to be completed for the 2017-2018 school year. Phase I will include the Performing Arts Building and Agricultural Science Building FFA Complex, and various Athletic Projects.
The Performing Arts Building will be approximately 17,275 square feet and includes a band hall, ensemble room, practice rooms and storage rooms. As well as a Second Band Hall, Orchestra and Choir Room. The Performing Arts building will incorporate Xeriscape Landscaping. This unique manner of landscaping is where native plants are used to enhance the aesthetics of the facility.
The Agricultural Science Building includes a 5,634 square foot building and will be the home to building houses, an Education/Welding Shop with 6 welding booths, a woodworking area, and a classroom. A 1,386 square foot green house will also be on site as well as a 620 square foot exterior animal pen area. The animal pen area includes 6 covered pens where students will be able to house animals during our winter season. The agricultural complex will also incorporate xeriscape landscape.
The athletic and infrastructure projects will include the relocation of the softball field to facilitate a new up to date facility that includes, a canopy, bathrooms for the tennis courts, which will make it a stand-alone facility. The complex also includes the infrastructure leading to the new buildings and surrounding areas.
“We just want to thank the voters, the School Board, and Mr. Santos for giving us an opportunity to facilitate our students with a platform to showcase their diverse interests in the areas of the performing arts, agricultural sciences, or athletics. We are grateful for everyone who has mades this possible,” said by J.B. Alexander High School Principal, Ernesto Sandoval.
Infrastructure improvements will include enhancements to storm water drainage systems and a new road named “BULDOG Avenue” connecting to Del Mar Blvd. These additions are much needed to facilitate our growth in student population.
Phase II of the projects will include the conversion of the existing band hall into the new engineering and science labs. These additions will provide students with the modern updates our schools need to stay current and up to date. The implementation of the new Organic Chemistry & Microbiology Labs, Engineering AutoCAD, Robotics Labs and a Theatre Arts Classroom.
Mr. Frances Atwell from U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar’s Office attended the event to honor Mercedes Oronoz the 2016 Yale Educator Recognition Award. Mrs. Oronoz is a veteran Mathematics teacher at John B. Alexander. The Yale Educator Recognition program recognizes outstanding educators worldwide who have supported and inspired students to achieve at high-levels.
