Conroe ISD has a star in J. L. McCullough Junior High. The Highlanders are committed students, warrior poets of the academic ranks, if you will, outmatching the schools from the rest of the low- and out-lands across Texas.
Their mission statement is simple: growth. Specifically, “creating… an environment whereby each student is given the opportunity and encouragement to grow—intellectually, physically, emotionally, and socially…” in order to achieve a dynamic, quality, collaborative education.
Built in 1976 and named for a former superintendent of the Conroe Independent School District, McCullough Junior High used to serve a lot more students. According to the Community Impact Newspaper, it was the premiere junior AND senior high school in The Woodlands, hosting kids from 7th-12th grade. In 1978, Knox Junior High opened and precluded the need for McCullough to accommodate 7th and 8th graders.
Almost two decades later, with the opening of The Woodlands High School, McCullough reverted back to being a Junior High. Then in the 2000’s McCullough changed hats again as part of The Woodlands High School: McCullough Campus, additionally housing both freshmen and sophomores, but has since reverted back to being a middle school campus (as of the mid-2000’s).
Despite its varied and meandering history—a history that could have been an obstacle for a clear approach to the education the administrators wanted to provide for the tenants in their care—McCullough Junior High School, under the careful guidance of Principal Chris McCord, does a great job educating young minds.
The Texas Tribune reported in 2011 that McCullough students performed well above the state average in TAKS scores. They also have at least 21 campus programs, all for varied interests, and kids who exemplify the Highlander spirit are awarded in the Highlighted Highlander program, a program designed to praise the high-achieving with special recognition for their respectful attitudes, good deeds, excellent leadership skills or improved performances.
In fact, McCullough Junior High also collaborates with The Woodlands High School in creating new opportunities across the board. This year,Your Houston News reported that a sophomore at The Woodlands High School penned a one act play to be performed by Drama students at McCullough for the Junior High UIL (University Interscholastic League) One-Act Play competition.
McCullough Jr. High School helps students find know who they are and what they want, growing into intelligent, self-assured, brave, creative young adults. Well equipped for that battlefield that is growing up, these Highlanders are academic heroes.
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