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Wootton Elementary reopens after modernization funded by Austin ISD's 2022 bond
Summary
Wootton Elementary officially opened its modernized campus in a ceremony featuring student performances, Superintendent Matias Segura and Trustee Foster. District and city leaders credited the 2022 bond program and a long-standing city-district partnership; no formal board action occurred at the event.
Wootton Elementary School marked the completion of a multi-year modernization in a grand-opening ceremony that included student performances, remarks from district and city leaders and a ceremonial ribbon cutting.
Principal Nicholas Martinez opened the event and introduced student performances and staff. He announced the school's awards for the day and logistics for the reception, and invited families and community partners to the celebration.
Students Valerie and Victoria described attending Wootton through kindergarten, time in portables and the school's return to a permanent building. Valerie said the new school is "so much better than the old Wootton and the portables," adding she was "very excited for when new kids will get to go here and learn." Two students, Ada and Abel Black, performed an original song for the audience.
Superintendent Matias Segura framed the project as part of Austin ISD's broader investment in neighborhood schools after the district's 2022 bond program. "This school is for you," Segura said, and later added, "Wootton's modernized spaces reflect the most value that we have in Austin ISD." He thanked trustees and community partners for their roles in passing the bond and supporting the project.
Trustee Foster, introduced as the district's District 3 trustee, reflected on the school's history and the community's commitment during years spent in portables. Mayor Pro Tem Chito Vela praised the building as "gorgeous," noted the city's long partnership with the district, and highlighted sidewalks and other neighborhood improvements that will help children walk and bike to school.
Assistant Principal Martha Sanchez described watching students "make this space their own" in the weeks since they began using the campus and led recognition of former staff and community sponsors. Principal Martinez and staff then led attendees in assembling for a ribbon cutting and group photo, after which attendees were invited to a reception in the courtyard.
The ceremony emphasized the district's investment in facilities and gratitude to teachers, staff and volunteers; no formal board votes or policy decisions were made at the event. Participants thanked the many contractors, architects and community members who supported the modernization. The plaque presentation named Anne Quintanilla as the school's teacher of the year and Miss Mejia as teacher of promise.
Next steps noted at the ceremony were largely celebratory and logistical: a ribbon cutting and photo followed by cake in the courtyard for staff, families and students.
