Construction begins on Raymondville middle school

RAYMONDVILLE - Standing in front of the construction site for what will become the new Myra Green Middle School, Leticia Rebeles-Rodriguez said she couldn't wait for the building to be completed.

"We're very excited," said Rebeles-Rodriguez, the school's counselor.

She has worked at the middle school she once attended as a young girl for nine years. She's been with the district for 20 years.

Generations of families have been educated at Myra Green Middle School, which is more than 50 years old. The move to a brand new building promises a new era for education in Raymondville, school officials said.

"It's something the community can look forward to and be proud of," Rebeles-Rodriguez said.

Principal Sabrina Franco said students often pass by a photograph of their future building in disbelief.

"They'll believe it when they see it," Franco said.

Franco and Rebeles-Rodriguez joke they're eager to be in a building with central air and heating. Franco said she's looking forward to a modern design with enclosed walkways.

On Tuesday, school leaders boasted about their current project, which is expected to be finished in spring 2010.

In an election in 2006, voters turned down a bond issue to replace the school, but it passed in November 2007, Superintendent of Schools Johnny Pineda said.

The project will cost $14.8 million. The bond issue was for $9.8 million and Pineda said $5 million for construction will come from local funds.

The new building will give the school's students labs for science and art, as well as their own band hall and gymnasium.

The two-story middle school will be behind Raymondville High School off of U.S. 77.

Close to 500 students currently attend MGMS.

Pineda said the project was the result of vision and action.

"Education is the greatest equalizer amongst men and women," he said. "Today we are planting the seed of a product none of us may ever get to see or know."

School board President John L. Solis said the construction brings the district's education facilities around full circle and provides an environment that is conducive to learning.

Raymond Gignac, the architect of the school, said the design was created with the help of school, city and community members.

"I know you'll be proud of your facility when it's done," Gignac said.