U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded Rockdale Independent School District (RISD) a grant of $5.25 million to renovate the College & Career Academy. This investment marks a transformative step towards enhancing educational opportunities for Rockdale students.
The College & Career Academy, which once operated as Rockdale’s hospital, will undergo extensive renovations to become a state-of-theart facility dedicated to upper-level classes in health science, manufacturing and technology. In addition to serving as an extension of Temple College (RISD’s academic partner) with classes available to the community, the center will offer dual-credit courses, providing students with the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school.
Planning and behind-the-scenes work will commence immediately, with on-site renovations expected to begin before the end of the year.
“We are thrilled to receive this substantial grant from the Economic Development Administration,” said RISD Superintendent Dr. Denise Monzingo. “This funding allows us to take the first crucial steps towards transforming our College & Career Academy into a cutting- edge educational facility that will equip our students and community with the skills and knowledge needed for success in the 21st century workforce.”
GRANT DETAILS— As soon as the RISD received the hospital it worked with an architect for a preliminary plan in order to apply for the EDA grant, and also talk to area companies who might be interested in investing in the project.
“This grant will pay for the work getting started turning the hospital into a school,” Dr. Monzingo said. “The problem is we can get equipment once we are remodeled, but most grants don’t pay for brick and mortar,” Monzingo added. “At our August board meeting we will be approving a construction manager at risk and approve bids for asbestos abatement and interior demolition. We would like the remodel to begin as soon as possible. With this grant plus our $1.3 million match, we hope to get about 60% completed.”
COAL COMMUNITIES— Funded through the Assistance to Coal Communities (ACC) initiative, these projects receive competitive grants from the EDA to support communities significantly affected by reduced coal usage including coal mining, coal-fired power plants and related manufacturing. ACC projects focus on driving economic diversification, job creation, capital investment, workforce development, and re-employment opportunities.
“Texas remains the best state for business thanks to our diverse and highly skilled workforce,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “These grants in Rockdale and Port Isabel will help make critical improvements to our infrastructure, creating over a thousand good-paying jobs, bolstering economic development in Central and South Texas, and equipping young Texans with the skills they need to thrive in high-demand industries. I thank the Economic Development Administration for this investment that will lead to more economic growth as we work to build a bigger, better Texas.”
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