New Braunfels ISD marked a major milestone in the future of New Braunfels High School with a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house on December 10, celebrating the completion of Phase 1 of the campus rebuild. 

District leaders, board members, staff, students, alumni, and community members gathered to officially open the new facility and honor the school’s legacy.

“This new high school represents what is possible when a community comes together with a shared vision for its students,” said Dr. Laurelyn Arterbury, NBISD Superintendent. “While we may be opening the doors to a new building, the heart of the Unicorn community—the values, the memories, and the spirit—moves forward with us.”

The ceremony featured remarks from Arterbury, New Braunfels High School Principal Greg Hughes, and NBISD Board President Eric Bergquist. Speakers reflected on the school’s deep roots in the community, the opportunities the new building provides for students, and the collective effort that made the project possible through voter-approved bond funding.

“We’re not just celebrating a new space—we’re celebrating a school community that has been a part of New Braunfels since 1845,” Hughes said. “This new facility represents more than bricks, steel, and glass. It reflects our commitment to provide the best learning environment for every student, every day.”

Following the ribbon cutting, guests were invited to tour the new Phase 1 building, which includes state-of-the-art classrooms and Career and Technical Education (CTE) spaces designed to support hands-on learning and future-ready skills. 

An open house was also held the same evening, allowing alumni and community members to walk the halls of the original building one last time before the transition.

Students will begin classes in the new Phase 1 building when classes resume after holiday break on January 6th.

Photos from the event can be found in the NBISD Photo Gallery.