Harris County Department of Education leaders gathered on Tuesday for a groundbreaking ceremony to launch the construction phase of the new Academic and Behavior School East building. The new facility will be built on the existing campus’ field, located in southeast Harris County.

ABS East serves students aged 5-22 with intellectual, developmental, and behavioral disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and other significant health impairments. The campus is one of two HCDE schools which provides special education services on a contractual basis to high-need students in area school districts. 

The $12.6 million project calls for a new 43,000 square foot school that can accommodate up to 184 students. It will feature a sensory-sensitive color palette and rounded corners. The new building will also include an innovative, inclusive playground with rubber flooring so students with assistive devices can participate in physical activity. A zipline and special structures will allow non-ambulatory students to participate in outdoor play.

Other features include a sensory room, laundry facilities, and a domestic learning lab with a commercial kitchen. Additionally, the school offers small classes with a low student-to-instructor ratio.

Designed by Houston architectural firm Cre8 Architects, ABS East’s layout is largely based on its sister school, Academic and Behavior School West, whose new campus opened in August 2020.

HCDE Board of Trustees, County Superintendent James Colbert Jr., ABS East Principal Donna Treviño-Jones, school staff and students