Midland Independent School District is moving forward with the next phase of its Bond 2023 program, approving architectural and engineering services for two major projects that will expand and modernize student facilities.
The initiative aims to modernize aging infrastructure and expand capacity for students. According to a news release, district trustees recently selected Parkhill to lead design work for Bond Package 13, which includes upgrades to John “Randy” Storie Middle School and construction of a new Encore Academy facility. Work tied to the bond has already progressed across multiple campuses, with Package 13 representing a key step in updating aging infrastructure and expanding program capacity. At Storie Middle School, the scope of work includes a comprehensive renovation and expansion, featuring a new fire suppression system, modernized classrooms, and a redesigned main entry with a secure vestibule. Plans also call for expanded kitchen and cafeteria space, along with campus-wide upgrades to meet current safety, technology, and facility standards according to the news release.
The school is expected to transition into the district’s sixth middle school following grade reconfiguration in 2028. The bond program will also fund construction of a new, purpose-built campus for Encore Academy, which serves students in the district’s 18+ special education program. The new facility will be built adjacent to Storie Middle School and designed to double the current capacity to more than 45 students. Planned features include life skills labs, vocational training spaces, classrooms, collaboration areas, outdoor learning environments, and recreational amenities. District officials said the new building will replace the program’s current split-campus setup and provide a more effective, centralized learning environment according to the news release.
Looking ahead, bundling both projects under a single design and construction approach is expected to streamline delivery and reduce costs by an estimated $1 million. The Encore Academy facility could open as early as August 2027 while additional bond-funded projects continue across the district. Leaders say the overall effort reflects a long-term strategy to improve educational spaces, increase operational efficiency, and better serve Midland ISD students through modern facilities according to the news release.
The Midland Independent School District aims to enhance student achievement and support diverse groups through targeted educational programs according to its official website. The district operates under Superintendent Stephanie Howard according to its official website, collaborates with the Midland Education Foundation on academic initiatives according to its official website, provides services in academics and other fields through partnerships according to its official website, functions as a public education entity aligned with state guidelines according to its official website, and marked an early milestone with Midland County’s establishment in 1885 according to its official website.