A park in Bridgeland is being dedicated to Dr. Mark Henry for his commitment, integrity, foresight, leadership, and civic wisdom. Dr. Henry, who is also a Bridgeland resident, retired in December of 2023 after 12 years as superintendent for Cy-Fair Independent School District (CFISD). The dedication ceremony will begin at 4:30 p.m. on January 18 at 19611 Edwards Limestone Way.
“We are honored to have the opportunity to dedicate one of Bridgeland’s parks to such a beloved resident and leader within our community,” said Jim Carman, President of the Houston Region for Howard Hughes and proud CFISD graduate. “It is our vision that Dr. Mark Henry Park will serve as a gathering spot and place for imaginative play for its residents and provide safe connections for students walking to school for years to come.”
Occupying one-acre in Parkland Village, Dr. Mark Henry Park is located along Parkland Common adjacent to the educational village. A one-mile linear park system that extends from Tuckerton Road to Mason Road, Parkland Common provides a safe way for children and parents to walk or bike from many Parkland Village neighborhoods to Wells Elementary, Sprague Middle School and Bridgeland High School. Its position nearest the school campus will allow children on their way home from school to actively climb, jump and play on a variety of structures. It’s location makes it an ideal park to honor the former administrator, principal and teacher.
His career in education spanned 42 years with the past 12 years as CFISD superintendent impacting many children’s educational journeys. As superintendent, he was responsible for guiding 118,000+ students and 19,000+ employees in Texas’ third largest school district. Upon reflection of his four decades in education, Dr. Mark Henry has expressed, “having the opportunity to serve the CFISD community these past twelve years has been an immense honor. My wife Cindy and I are grateful for all those involved with CFISD and look forward to calling this community and Bridgeland our forever home.”
Since 2011, Dr. Henry managed many projects for the school district which has seen tremendous growth during the same time period. Overseeing two bond referendums during his tenure that provided funding to build five schools in Bridgeland: Pope, Wells and McGown Elementary Schools, Sprague Middle School and Bridgeland High School, all five schools, along with CFISD, achieved an “A rating” by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Transportation upgrades and safety and security enhancements were also addressed with the funding from these bonds.
Dedicated to the students he served and advocating for their success, Dr. Henry helped to raise $1 million for the Cy-Fair Educational Foundation (CFEF) through the annual Superintendent’s Fun Run and grew CFEF’s Donate to Educate program to more than $1.6 million. Working to raise funds for these programs positively impacted students’ future successes by providing more scholarships for graduating CFISD seniors.
His commitment to the community continued past the boundaries of the schools. Dr. Henry served as chairman of the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce and served as a Board trustee for the CFEF and for HCA Houston Healthcare.
The park will feature a commemorative plaque briefly detailing Dr. Mark Henry’s illustrious career. For those planning to attend the dedication ceremony, please park at Bridgeland High School at 10707 Mason Road and walk across the street to the park.