For families across Comal ISD and the growing New Braunfels area, the name of a new school is more than just a label—it reflects the values, history, and direction of the community itself.

On March 26, 2026, the Comal ISD Board of Trustees officially approved the name Dr. Jerry S. Major Middle Schoolfor the district’s newest campus, currently under construction in the Mayfair subdivision. The school, previously referred to as Middle School No. 9, is part of the voter-approved May 2023 bond and is scheduled to open in fall 2027.

For parents, students, and homeowners in one of the fastest-growing regions in the Texas Hill Country, the decision signals both continued investment in education and a commitment to honoring the leaders who helped build the district’s foundation.

Who Was Dr. Jerry S. Major—and Why This Matters

Dr. Jerry S. Major’s name carries deep roots in Comal ISD and across Texas public education.

A former superintendent of Comal ISD from 1993 to 2000, Major dedicated 35 years to education as a teacher, coach, and administrator. His influence extended beyond the classroom into the broader New Braunfels community, where he served on numerous committees and later as CEO of the McKenna Foundation.

Born in nearby San Marcos, Major earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southwest Texas State University and later completed his doctorate through the University of Texas Cooperative Superintendency Program. His career included service in multiple districts, including New Braunfels ISD, Livingston ISD, and Waco ISD, and continued after retirement through his work with the Region 13 Education Service Center.

For many longtime residents, his leadership represents a period of growth, stability, and a student-first mindset that continues to influence the district today.

A Community-Driven Naming Process

The decision to name the school after Dr. Major was not made lightly—it followed a structured, community-centered process that reflects Comal ISD’s approach to transparency and engagement.

The naming process began in July 2025, when the district invited nominations from families and community members. A School Naming Committee, made up of local representatives, met multiple times to review submissions and recommend a finalist to district leadership.

Under Comal ISD board policy, school names may honor educators with outstanding service, reflect geographic significance, or recognize historically meaningful institutions tied to the district’s development.

In this case, community support for Dr. Major stood out.

“Jerry Major is a class act,” wrote Smithson Valley High School Athletic Coordinator and Head Football Coach Larry Hill in a nomination. “His character, mannerisms and demeanor are second to none. His name on a Comal ISD school building would exemplify exactly what Comal ISD stands for.”

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A Legacy That Will Shape Future Generations

For current and future students, the name Dr. Jerry S. Major Middle School will serve as a daily reminder of the district’s priorities—leadership, service, and putting students first.

“We are pleased to honor the tradition of excellence that Dr. Major helped establish during his time as superintendent and through his continued service in the community,” said Comal ISD Board President Courtney Biasatti. “His legacy of kindness, commitment to education, and putting kids first, will be remembered for generations to come.”

As Comal ISD continues to grow alongside the rapid expansion of New Braunfels and surrounding communities, new campuses like this one play a critical role in maintaining quality education, manageable class sizes, and strong neighborhood schools.

What This Means for Families in New Braunfels and Comal ISD

For families moving into developments like Mayfair and surrounding areas, the new middle school represents more than added capacity—it offers reassurance that growth is being matched with thoughtful planning and investment in education.

New schools can impact everything from property values to school zoning and community identity. Naming this campus after a respected local leader reinforces a sense of continuity, even as the region evolves.

What Happens Next

Construction on Dr. Jerry S. Major Middle School is already underway, with doors expected to open in fall 2027. As development continues in Comal ISD, families can expect additional updates on attendance zones, staffing, and campus programs in the coming months and years.

For now, the naming decision marks an important milestone—connecting the district’s past leadership with its future students.

As Comal ISD continues to grow, stories like this reflect how the district is shaping not just schools, but the identity of the communities they serve.

Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for updates on new schools, development, and local education across New Braunfels.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.