Education Focus

  • In August 2013 the board of trustees selects Steve Flores as Round Rock ISD's superintendent to replace Jess Chvez, who retired in December 2013. Flores' contract was approved from Oct. 1, 2013–June 30, 2017. He previously served as Harlingen CISD's superintendent.

  • Nine Round Rock ISD elementary schools were awarded $6,810 in grants from the Texas Music Educators Association, RRISD announces in November. The funding was used for new equipment, technology and instruments for music programs.

  • Because of community feedback and district review, in February RRISD changes its procedure for surveying inclement weather in deciding whether to cancel or delay classes. Superintendent Steve Flores said new weather standards were set to determine whether a delay or cancellation is warranted. The new procedure also allows employees to report potentially hazardous conditions for traveling to campuses.

  • On March 20 trustees approve new graduation requirements for the 2014–15 school year. RRISD students entering ninth grade in fall 2014 are automatically placed on the district's Distinguished Level of Achievement plan, which requires 27 course credits and at least one endorsement.

  • The Opportunity Center and Wells Branch Elementary School each received a $2,000 grant from Whole Kids Foundation, a Whole Foods Foundation, to expand their gardens, the district announces April 7.

  • On May 10 voters approve a $299 million bond package, which includes funding for new technology, expanding students' access to technology and constructing additional fine arts venues.

  • Construction finishes in July on Success High School, the district's alternative high school located at 500 Gattis School Road. The school previously operated in portable classroom units at Stony Point and Westwood high schools. The board approved $25 million for the campus in August 2013.

  • Construction on the Round Rock High School Master Plan Phase 3 is also completed in July. The 139,569-square-foot expansion shifts the main entrance of the school from Lake Creek Drive to Deepwood Drive and includes 40 classrooms.