More people, funding fuels Elgin’s school expansion

MANOR, Texas (KXAN) — More schools are popping up in Elgin as more people move to the area.

"Lots of growth," said Elgin ISD Superintendent Dr. Jana Rueter.

Harvest Ridge Elementary school opened its doors in August, becoming the fourth elementary school in the district. The funding to build the school comes from 2021 Bond Package, which will also add Trinity Ranch Elementary next year. Elgin High School also got capacity upgrades thanks to the 2021 bond.

"We have grown over 480 students since the first day of school this August," said Rueter, as she discussed growth in the district.

Rueter said that planning ahead is important for a fast growing district. The 2024 bond, passed by voters in May, will add a second middle school and further improvements to Elgin High School.

"With our upcoming bond we are opening elementary number six," she said.

According to Realtor.com, the median listing for a home in Elgin is about $330,000 compared to $615,000 in Austin. Rueter said those home prices attract people to the area.

"With housing and looking at affordable housing for families, we have what you consider entry level homes," she said.

As for the future, Rueter said she doesn't expect the growth to slow anytime soon.

"Eventually this is probably going to be a second high school district in the future," Rueter said.

The 2024 bond will add a new fleet of buses, athletic facility upgrades as well as take care of maintenance upgrades.