Katy ISD staff will open the doors of Freeman High School, the district’s 10th high school, to students on August 14.
The northwest Katy campus is located at 7800 Katy Hockley Road and is a three-story building with capacity for 3,000 students, according to project details.
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Principal Gina Cobb will lead the school after previously serving as principal of Mayde Creek High School for two years. Cobb said she has experience building relationships with children to ensure everyone is included and there are opportunities for all.
“Everyone wants an inclusive environment, an opportunity for their children,” she said. “So it’s really about those opportunities and those growth opportunities for children and for us as adults.”
The details
County officials said some of Freeman’s special characteristics include:
- A makerspace where students can use a 3D printer, laser engraver and craft supplies
- A school store where organizations can sell fan clothing, merchandise, floral wreaths or event tickets
Other features include:
- Learning stairs
- A performing arts center for fine arts programs or where parent meetings can be held
Dig deeper
Freeman was funded by voters who approved KISD’s $676.23 million bond program in May 2021. Construction on the $183.31 million high school began in summer 2021, according to the district’s website.
The campus will help relieve pressure at Katy High School and Paetow High School, said Rachel Ross, general manager of media relations. Without Freeman High School, both high schools are expected to be 700-900 students over capacity in the 2024-25 school year, the district’s website says.
According to the website, Freeman is scheduled to open in the 2024-25 school year with at least 750 ninth and tenth grade students. After opening, the high school will add one grade level each year.
What happens next?
As the 2024-25 school year approaches, Cobb said she has enjoyed working with families to prepare for Freeman High School’s first year.
“Working with (the families) throughout the process has been truly special. We’ve worked with students, staff and our parents on our mission work, our vision work and our GOLD standard, which represents growth, opportunity, leadership and … determination,” she said.
