What’s Next For The Vacant Etoile School In Nacogdoches County?

It wasn't that long ago that there was a school in Etoile. It wasn't a Kindergarten through 12th grade. It only went through 8th grade. However, it was a legitimate school in Nacogdoches County. If I remember correctly, it's been closed for four or five years now.

Since then, the property has been sitting vacant. There has been no movement - that I've seen - of any kind. It doesn't appear to be falling into disrepair at the moment. However, there's nothing going on. It just makes me wonder what could be in store for it, if anything?

Get our free mobile app

What's Next for the Etoile School Building?

In addition to not being able to see any changes taking place, I haven't heard of any plans for it either. There are no sale signs on the property, and there's been no discussion about any future uses for it.

It's not like it's a bad property to the naked eye. It's kind of off the beaten path, sure, but it looks to be in a decent area, and still in decent shape.

Mark's Brainstorm Ideas for the Vacated Etoile School Building

Naturally, I've done some thinking about possibilities for the former building. Assuming that it's in decent shape - which I don't know, I'm just assuming - there are a few ideas that I think might fit.

Training Area - I think with the school structure already in place, the buildings would make for a good training area for Law Enforcement, EMS, or another related area. There would be training rooms, break areas, etc. I think our Deep East Texas officers, firefighters, game wardens, and more could benefit from it.

Emergency Management - This would be fairly close to training areas above, but there would also be an opportunity to make areas to store items needed during emergencies, such as pallets of items, water, radio equipment, you name it. Also, some areas could be converted into sleeping quarters as needed. Since there's also a cafeteria on-site, it would make for a good staging area for linemen, rescue crews, or others.

Storage - This is probably the simplest of my ideas, but it's probably the most practical in my mind. I don't know who would use it, but it could be used as storage. It's climate controlled and I assume there's some security measures still in place. I think it would make a decent storage area for the city, county or state, whoever might need it.

These are just some ideas. Let me say again, I haven't heard anything definitive about the future of this property. What are your thoughts?

LOOK: 20 Outside-the-Box Uses for Vacant Big-Box Stores

When a big-box store shuts down, its closure can significantly affect the local community and its economy. In numerous instances, the emphasis has shifted from traditional retail to more experiential opportunities. Let's explore 20 innovative businesses and services that can make the most of these adaptable spaces.

Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz