After weeks of uncertainty, Willis ISD’s new Calfee Middle School will open on schedule thanks to a last-minute agreement with the city of Conroe that restored water service on Aug. 7.
As of August 7, water service has been successfully restored to Calfee Middle School in Willis ISD, thanks to high-level discussions between officials from the city of Conroe and district leaders. The decision clears the path for the campus to commence operations as scheduled for the upcoming academic year.
In an Aug. 7 announcement, the city of Conroe characterized the discussions with WISD as “very productive” and noted that both parties found a viable way to move ahead. WISD Director of Communications Sarah Blakelock praised the district's unwavering commitment to seeking out practical solutions.
“We are pleased to see the return of water service and are diligently working to maintain its consistency and reliability,” Blakelock stated. “We are dedicated to prioritizing the well-being of our students, staff, and families.”
The dispute surrounding the service has escalated in the past few weeks.
On August 1, the WISD board rejected a proposed development agreement and authorized Superintendent Kimberley James to engage in direct negotiations. The Conroe City Council is scheduled to hold a special meeting at 10:00 a.m. on August 9 to discuss a memorandum of understanding with WISD regarding the provision of out-of-city services and other related issues.
The city asserts that WISD did not officially leave its previous water service area until late July 2025. District documents reveal that Aqua Texas relinquished its service rights to the campus in February 2024, with a notice sent to the city at that time.
Officials at both the state and county levels have shared their perspectives. State Rep. Will Metcalf, R-Conroe, reported that he engaged in discussions late into the night with Conroe Mayor Duke Coon and WISD School Board President Kyle Hoegemeyer, describing the outcome as a “positive result for our community.” Judge Mark Keough from Montgomery County expressed similar commendation, stating, “School will commence as scheduled.” Well done, Calfee Cougars!
City officials are scheduled to hold a press conference at 3 p.m. on August 7 at Conroe City Hall to provide more information about the agreement and the water service arrangements for the school.
