2010-2019: 100 Years Strong

The 2010s marked a period of growth, innovation, and reflection for Highland Park ISD. As enrollment reached record highs and the district continued to advocate for public education at the state level, HPISD also celebrated a century of educational excellence while laying the foundation for its next hundred years.

Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Dawson Orr, the district championed changes to Texas school finance and accountability systems, advocating for fair funding and reduced reliance on standardized testing. At the same time, district leaders focused on preparing students for the future through the development of the Learner for the Future and Educator for the Future profiles, which continue to guide HPISD's vision today.

Enrollment reached a record 7,022 students in 2013, resulting in Highland Park High School's move to the state's 6A classification. Continued growth reinforced the district's reputation for academic excellence and strong community support.

In 2014, Highland Park ISD celebrated its 100th anniversary with a series of events honoring the district's history, traditions, and generations of students, staff, and families. The centennial festivities included campus exhibits, alumni gatherings, community celebrations, and a museum showcasing the rich history of HPISD.

The decade also brought transformational facility improvements. In 2015, voters approved the largest bond package in district history, authorizing $361.4 million for campus rebuilds, renovations, safety enhancements, and new facilities. The bond funded the rebuilding of Hyer, University Park, and Bradfield elementary schools, construction of Boone Elementary School, renovations at McCulloch, HPMS, Armstrong, and HPHS, and the addition of major facilities including the William P. Clements Jr. Leadership Center and the new Seay Tennis Center.

The decade concluded with a leadership transition as Dr. Tom Trigg became HPISD's eighth superintendent in 2015, guiding the district through the implementation of Bond 2015 and continued academic excellence.

Key Milestones

• 2010 — Multi-Purpose Activities Center opens at HPHS.
• 2011 — HPISD joins lawsuit challenging Texas school finance system.
• 2012 — Learner for the Future profile is developed.
• 2013 — Educator for the Future profile is introduced.
• 2013 — Seven HPISD students attend the opening of the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum.
• 2013 — District enrollment reaches a record 7,022 students.
• 2014 — Highland Park High School moves to the 6A classification.
• 2014 — HPISD celebrates its Centennial Anniversary.
• 2015 — Dr. Tom Trigg becomes HPISD's eighth superintendent.
• 2015 — Voters approve the $361.4 million Bond 2015 program.
• 2015–2019 — Major campus rebuilds, renovations, and facility improvements begin across the district.