The project is part of the school’s 10-year strategic plan—which also includes a future visual arts center—aiming to enrich the student experience. John Cooper officials said the total cost of the project has not yet been established.
Looking back
The school is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year and has seen growth from being a pre-K through seventh grade school to a pre-K through 12th grade school with over 1,300 students.
The John Cooper School was founded in 1988 as part of the founder of The Woodlands George Mitchell's vision for The Woodlands community.
“The school has grown and thrived alongside the development of the area and has a strong connection with the community,” Head of School Stephen Popp said.
The details
Popp said the school emphasizes the “whole child experience,” including academics, arts and athletics, and the new facilities will cater to physical education, athletics, arts and alumni activities.
The upcoming facility is located adjacent to the Dunlap Gymnasium on the 43-acre campus. It will be a 25,000-square-foot, three-story building.
The facility aims to accommodate the following, Popp said:
- Various sports
- Physical education
- Fitness rooms
- Locker rooms
- Training rooms
The project is being funded through philanthropic efforts and support from parents, alumni and the Cooper community, Popp said.
Popp said the facility will serve Cooper students but can also enhance community engagement, with the potential to host other teams and events from the area.
Stay tuned
After the athletics facility is complete, the school plans to work on a visual arts center. The school's strategic plan includes continuous innovation and enhancing facilities to provide opportunities for students and faculty, Popp said.
