Former RHHS donated to City

RIO HONDO, TX—The Rio Hondo Independent School District (RHISD) Board of Trustees voted to donate the “old high school” to the City of Rio Hondo during a regular meeting held March 4, 2024.

According to statement by the RHISD, the donation, which encompasses approximately two and a half acres of land, marks a pivotal moment in the town’s history as the building will be repurposed to serve as Rio Hondo’s new cultural hub – becoming the new City Hall, a public incubator for entrepreneurial assistance and a museum to preserve local history.

Located south of the RHISD Administration Building, the old high school holds a special place in the hearts of many residents as its halls bustled with students from the early 1900s to the late ’90s. Since then, the building has remained a landmark of community pride and tradition.

According to the RHISD School Board of Trustees, the donation of the old high school ushers in a new era for the City of Rio Hondo, focusing on growth while maintaining its cultural roots and color.

“We’re breathing new life into a historical, beautiful building that has not been fully utilized in some time,” said RHISD Board President Jaime Lopez. “The repurposing of the old high school benefits the residents of Rio Hondo as the new building will regain its landmark status similar to the Rio Hondo Bridge.”

Lopez, who attended classes at the old high school, said the collaboration with the City is ushering a new phase of economic growth and prosperity to the district while still honoring the city’s storied past.

“The building is located downtown, across from the only supermarket in the City,” he said. “As the new City Hall, it will be conveniently located for residents, and once the museum and public incubator come to fruition, residents will see how the city can grow economically while staying true to its roots.”

Ultimately, the donation of the building will bring opportunity, according to the RHISD Board President.

“Businesses that may grow from the assistance of the future public incubator may end up establishing in Rio Hondo,” Lopez said. “That would benefit the district and growth of the City as businesses attract families and students.”