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Welcoming Paula Walker Elementary School

June 18, 2024

We are thrilled to announce the opening of  Paula Walker Elementary School in the Waterscape community, a vibrant new addition to our Waterscape community in Royse City. Located at 1274 Crenshaw Road, this state-of-the-art school is set to open its doors in August 2024, offering a nurturing and dynamic environment for students from kindergarten through 5th grade. As the 7th school in the Royse City Independent School District (RCISD) and the only new school to open in the last three years, Paula Walker Elementary reflects the district’s ongoing growth and commitment to providing high-quality education to its expanding student population.

Paula Walker Elementary Waterscape

Paula Walker Elementary at Waterscape

Situated within walking distance, the new school allows children the freedom to walk or ride bikes to class, fostering a sense of independence and safety in our close-knit community. Beyond the classroom, families will appreciate the nearby baseball fields and recreational parks, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities and family bonding. These amenities not only enhance the overall quality of life but also strengthen the communal ties, making Waterscape a vibrant and connected place to live.

Educational Excellence and Fiscal Responsibility

Waterscape’s Elementary School is named in honor of Paula Walker, a distinguished educator who has dedicated 35 years to Texas public schools, with 32 of those years serving Royse City ISD. By implementing a cost-effective design, Royse City ISD ensures savings for taxpayers and efficiently meets opening deadlines, thereby accommodating the district’s rapidly expanding student population.

Royse City ISD covers over 77 square miles, including parts of Rockwall, Collin, and Hunt Counties, the City of Royse City, portions of the City of Fate, and several rural areas. With enrollment exceeding 9,000 students in 2023 and projected to surpass 18,000 by 2033, recent bond elections have allowed the district to acquire land and build new schools like Paula Walker Elementary, all while maintaining a stable property tax rate. This strategic approach reflects the district’s commitment to delivering high-quality education to an ever-growing community.

 

Paula Walker with Students

Innovative Design and Features

The new campus is designed with the future of learning in mind. VLK Architects have brought the vision to life, focusing on vibrant colors and collaborative spaces that enhance the educational experience. The building includes specially designed areas that encourage students to work together and maximize learning potential.

In line with Waterscape’s commitment, the developers introduced 3.5 miles of 10-foot wide trails leading to the Elementary School. Additionally, TxDOT is extending FM 548, transforming it from a small, two-lane rural roadway into a wider four-lane divided urban roadway. These improvements will facilitate smoother traffic flow and are accessible to all citizens, not just Waterscape residents.

Bright and Colorful Interior Design

Community and Family Focus

Paula Walker Elementary is not just a place for learning; it is a hub for building strong, positive relationships among staff, students, and families. Principal Teresa Atkins, along with her dedicated team, is committed to fostering a supportive and engaging environment for all.

The school’s official beam signing event on November 10, 2023, was a testament to the community’s involvement and excitement. Administrators, parents, and staff came together to sign a steel beam with well-wishes, quotes, and favorite scriptures, embedding their hopes and dreams into the very fabric of the school.

Signature at Beam Signing Event at Paula Walker Elementary

Staying Connected

For the latest updates and news about Paula Walker Elementary, visit the school’s website and follow their Facebook page. Here, you can find additional details, photos, and ongoing updates about the school’s progress and upcoming events.

Paula Walker and her husband

 

 

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