Haygood Elementary Opens Its Doors: Cross Creek West Celebrates First Week at New On-Site School
A new chapter in education and community began this month in Cross Creek West as families celebrated the opening of Haygood Elementary School, the community’s very first on-site school. The campus, part of Lamar Consolidated ISD, welcomed pre-K through fifth grade students for its inaugural week, marking a milestone that residents have long anticipated.
The modern campus includes 46 classrooms, a 4,200-square-foot library, and a future-ready curriculum designed to inspire curiosity and growth. For many families, the opening week was more than just the start of a new school year — it was the beginning of a legacy.
A Tribute to Community Legacy
Named in honor of late Lamar CISD educators James “Dick” Richard and Marinella Haygood, the school reflects the couple’s lifelong dedication to teaching, community service, and the arts. Both were deeply rooted in the district, with Dick known for his mentorship in Boy Scouts, Little League, and the Optimist Club, and Marinella remembered for building a strong art program at Lamar CISD High School.
The Hedgehogs — Haygood’s newly adopted mascot — carry forward that tradition of learning and creativity.
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Leadership and Vision
At the helm is Dr. Troy Bethley, Haygood’s founding principal, who brings more than 25 years of experience as a teacher, administrator, and leader within Lamar CISD. Joining him is assistant principal Hailey Wied, ensuring strong guidance during the campus’s formative years.
Dr. Bethley emphasized the excitement of the school’s debut: “The first week at Haygood has been filled with energy, joy, and a true sense of community. Our students are already showing the curiosity and kindness that this campus was built to nurture.”
He added that the school’s design and programs were created with the future in mind: “We want every child here to feel inspired to explore, to question, and to grow. Haygood isn’t just a school — it’s a launchpad for lifelong learning.”
Rendering of the newly opened Haygood Elementary School in Cross Creek West, the first on-site campus Growth in Cross Creek West
Haygood Elementary is the first of three schools planned for Cross Creek West, with a multi-school complex scheduled to open in 2027 on land purchased through Lamar CISD’s 2022 bond program. The bond package — valued at $1.5 billion — has helped fund new schools to meet the needs of the district’s rapid growth across Fort Bend County.
For Johnson Development, the builder of Cross Creek West, Haygood represents a broader commitment to education across its master-planned communities. The new campus is the 25th school within a Johnson Development community, a number that continues to grow alongside Houston’s western suburbs.
A Community Milestone
Families walking their children to class during the first week felt the historic weight of the moment. For many, it meant their children could finally attend school just steps from home.
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Dr. Bethley noted the special connection between the campus and its neighborhood roots: “This is more than a school opening. It’s about families, neighbors, and children growing together right here in Cross Creek West.”
With the first week now behind them, the Hedgehogs are officially at home in their new burrow — a campus built on legacy, community, and the promise of the future.
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.
