Austin to Reopen Historic Pease Elementary by 2028
The former campus will transform into a new early childhood education center managed by the United Way.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Child Care
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By 2028, the Austin Independent School District plans to reopen the historic Pease Elementary site as an early childhood education center. United Way for Greater Austin will manage the facility to expand local childcare capacity.
Why it matters
This initiative aims to address the need for affordable childcare while preparing local children for kindergarten. The facility will also serve as a hub to connect parents with essential housing, healthcare, and food support resources.
The $18.8 million renovation covers a 2.2-acre campus that includes a historic landmark building. United Way secured a 50-year lease agreement for the site and allocated $2.3 million for staffing and opening operations.
The players
Austin Independent School District
This public school system oversees the education of students across the Austin area and maintains ownership of the Pease Elementary property.
United Way for Greater Austin
This nonprofit organization focuses on community health, education, and financial stability programs throughout the region.
Moody Foundation
This philanthropic organization provides grants and funding to support various community, education, and social initiatives across Texas.
The details
The project is funded by $3 million in Congressional appropriations and a $1.8 million donation from the Moody Foundation. While United Way operates the center, the Austin Independent School District will retain ownership of the historic land.
Timeline
Pease Elementary originally opened its doors in 1876.
The campus achieved historic landmark status in 2013.
The facility officially closed its doors in 2020.
Trustees approved a 50-year lease for the site in 2025.
The center is scheduled to reopen to students in 2028.
Culture Shift
This project reflects a broader move toward repurposing historic educational sites to address contemporary gaps in early childhood infrastructure. It illustrates the trend of school districts partnering with non-profits to manage specialized support services on public land.
Local families will gain access to a new facility designed to serve 120 children from infancy through age six. Parents in the area will also be able to utilize the center to access integrated support services, including food, housing, and healthcare resources.
The takeaway
The reuse of the 1876 campus demonstrates how aging public infrastructure can be adapted to serve modern community demands. Residents should monitor district updates as the 2028 opening date approaches to learn about enrollment requirements.
Further reading
Find more information on local initiatives at Austin Child Care.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Austin American-Statesman.
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