In 2014, the Katy community voted to approve a bond referendum that included the construction of six new school campuses, according to a statement by project architect VLK Architects, with offices in Houston, Fort Worth, Texas and El Paso, Texas. With the new Robert and Felice Bryant Elementary, the district set out to create a two-story prototype facility for future elementary schools. The district also challenged VLK Architects to design a building featuring adaptable spaces for a variety of instructional styles to support next generation learning. Bryant Elementary is the third and final elementary school within the 2014 Bond to commence construction.

The new Robert and Felice Bryant Elementary School design will allow for ease of student circulation and facilitate supervision and administration while providing a safe and secure environment for learning. It will feature classroom wings that introduce plenty of natural light via large windows. The wings will be organized around a new media center to promote collaboration, and will be situated to take advantage of the views and green space surrounding the facility.

The school was named in recognition of Robert and Felice Bryant’s long time commitment to Katy ISD. Robert Bryant began his career with the school district in 1983 as Katy High School’s director of bands and fine arts department chair. He was later promoted to executive director of fine arts in 2000 and has received numerous awards throughout his tenure with the district.

Felice Bryant, now retired, was a kindergarten and first grade for 24 years and was named the Katy Elementary teacher of the Year in 1997. She continues to impact students through tutoring and mentorship opportunities, according to a statement by VLK Architects.

“When you talk about pillars of a community, they epitomize that very well. When you talk about the board’s vision of ‘Be the Legacy,’ this is that legacy in action,” said Alton Frailey, Katy ISD superintendent, in a statement. “They know it is not about them. They have taught our children very well and given their all to this community.”

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