The Transformation of Galveston’s Schools

Story & Photos By Annette Lansdowne

If the headline reads like a major happening, it’s because it has been; especially in the eyes of Galveston’s youth. We are talking about completely transforming facilities; one that had eight feet of water in it. Yes, this is the last of Hurricane Ike school renovations for Galveston. I guess some great things do come out of things not so great.

I had the opportunity to help make what people are calling “remarkable and bold” changes in the schools in Galveston. I was contacted by GISD child nutrition director Jennifer Douglas to see what I could create in a budget that would be presented to the school board. One thing she asked was “Could I follow a theme?”

We all agree the transformation is amazing. One of the most prevalent changes is the addition of color. The space has become more contemporary and gives the students a feeling of pride in their Galveston home.

Galveston has the most unusual charm and is a serious part of Texas history. The energy of the water always enthralls and the brand new, clean beaches with their beautifully colored yellow and turquoise umbrellas all lined up, offer a striking show.

Ball High School, which sported a typical, institutionalized look, now has an upbeat feeling. School logos, Mardi Gras decor and a salad bar with an island feel, all contribute to the new look that includes new kitchen equipment on the serving line, refurbished tile and fresh paint.

The renovations “look great,” said Matt Farragher, who works for the Preservation Resource Center at the Galveston Historical Foundation. “I’m glad [the renovations] turned out well and helped the students learn a little history.”

Central Middle School also required major changes as the school’s focus became multipurpose and included theatre, music and radio shows. With this knowledge we pulled colors and the art deco feel from the 1920s and finished out with signage and posters of that era.

During Ike, Central had been under eight feet of water, requiring major clean up. When the school reopened, the administration chose a theme of journalism for décor.

After Ike, “tension was up and spirits were down,” said Douglas. “This remodel had to make a big impact on the students to get their attention.”
The project was completed in December 2009. Initial responses from students and staff are wonderful. The students told Douglas they “can’t believe that this is the same serving area or that all [the renovations] were done for them.”