An expanded show arena, construction lab and agricultural mechanics lab are among the features included in the early design for Friendswood ISD’s new career and agricultural science center. The board of trustees reviewed the schematic design at its Nov. 9 meeting, but delayed approval for further discussion and to gather additional information about initial costs.

What you need to know: The preliminary design for the career and agricultural science center includes three buildings totaling nearly 42,000 square feet, as well as nearly 10,500 square feet for parking, district documents show.

In their own words: During the meeting, trustee Tony Hopkins raised questions about the project's projected costs and asked for additional information about the initial estimates provided by Huckabee, the project's architectural firm.

Looking ahead: If approved, construction is expected to begin in April and take about nine months, with substantial completion anticipated by late 2027, district documents show.

School funding, special education services and teacher retention are among the issues Pearland ISD wants state lawmakers to address during the 2027 Texas Legislature, following board approval of the district’s priorities at its Nov. 10 meeting.

A closer look: Ahead of the legislative session, which begins Jan. 12, the district developed eight priorities based on district needs, previous priorities and input from advocacy organizations and district stakeholders, district documents show.

What’s next: The board may revisit the priorities at its December meeting to consider additional changes, including the suggestions raised during discussion, district officials said.

Clear Creek ISD could move and demolish several facilities by 2028 if the district decides to move forward with a proposed consolidation plan.

The details: CCISD’s board of trustees reviewed a plan to consolidate several of the district’s schools and facilities at a Nov. 9 workshop ahead of a future meeting where the board will vote to adopt the plan.

According to a presentation from the district, the proposed plan would:

• Move Clear Path Alternative School to the Learner Support Center

• Relocate Assessment and Evaluation to the Technology Learning Center

• Demolish the Bay Professional Learning Center

Looking ahead: The board will vote on whether to adopt the consolidation plan at its Nov. 16 meeting, which will be at 6 p.m. at the CCISD Education Support Center, located at 2425 East Main St., League City.

From local churches to statewide traditions, see which organizations are collecting donations to feed Houstonians this holiday season. This list is subject to change and not comprehensive.

Participating organizations:

• Cy-Fair Helping Hands

• St. John Vianney Catholic Church

• Prince of Peace’s Thanksgiving Loaves & Fishes

• 14th Annual Fifth Ward Fall Festival & Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway

• Keep US Fed Montgomery County

• City Wide Club and CW 39 Super Feast

• Operation Turkey

• Montgomery County Food Bank

• East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry