2000-2009: Innovation, Growth & Transformation

The 2000s were a decade of innovation, investment, and change for Highland Park ISD. As technology rapidly transformed everyday life, the district expanded academic opportunities, modernized facilities, and strengthened safety and security measures while remaining focused on student achievement.

The decade was shaped by national events, most notably the attacks of September 11, 2001, which influenced school safety practices and emergency preparedness across the country. Under the leadership of Dr. Cathy Bryce, HPISD continued to grow academically, aligning curriculum across grade levels, expanding technology integration, and introducing full-day kindergarten.

Community support remained a driving force throughout the decade. In 2003, the HPHS Alumni Association merged with the Highland Park Education Foundation, creating a unified organization dedicated to supporting students, educators, alumni, and the broader HPISD community. The district also launched the HPHS Science Festival in 2006, providing students with opportunities to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and medicine.

Voters demonstrated strong support for the district through the approval of a $75.4 million bond package in 2008. Bond-funded projects expanded classroom space, improved safety and security, upgraded technology infrastructure, renovated athletic facilities, and funded construction of the Multi-Purpose Activities Center.

The decade concluded with the appointment of Dr. Dawson Orr as HPISD’s seventh superintendent and the School Board’s decision to limit class rank beginning with the Class of 2010, a move that influenced districts across Texas.

By the end of the 2000s, Highland Park ISD had strengthened its facilities, expanded academic programs, embraced new technology, and positioned students for success in an increasingly connected world.

Key Milestones

• 2001 — Dr. Cathy Bryce becomes HPISD’s sixth superintendent.
• 2001 — September 11 prompts new focus on school safety and emergency preparedness.
• 2002 — HPISD expands kindergarten to full-day instruction.
• 2003 — Major high school renovation project is completed.
• 2003 — HPHS Alumni Association merges with the Highland Park Education Foundation.
• 2006 — HPHS Science Festival is established.
• 2008 — Voters approve a $75.4 million bond package.
• 2008–2010 — Bond-funded projects improve facilities, security, technology, and athletic spaces across the district.
• 2009 — Dr. Dawson Orr becomes HPISD’s seventh superintendent.
• 2009 — HPISD limits class rank beginning with the Class of 2010.