Things to Do in Pasadena

Things to Do in Pasadena TX

The City of Pasadena is well-known for events like our annual Strawberry Festival and Livestock Show & Rodeo that bring thousands of visitors to the area each year. But what happens when the festival lights go down and the visitors go home? Whether you’re sampling goodies at Taste of the Town, listening to the outdoor sounds of the Philharmonic Orchestra or enjoying our festive holiday events and traditions during Christmas, there is something for everyone. Our municipality offers residents a variety of programs and services available to all demographics. As the city grows and changes, our leaders understand that it’s important for Pasadena to pioneer opportunities for community partnership, purpose and pride.

Parks & Recreation

The City of Pasadena’s Parks & Recreation Department has teamed up with several heavy-hitters to upgrade our parks and programs like never before. Through a new partnership with the Houston Parks Board, the Pasadena program recently received grants totaling $350,000 from the Houston Endowment and M.D. Anderson Hospital. This funding will enable the city to upgrade parks and services, making for a healthier Pasadena. A recent survey that will help guide the updates garnered more than 1,000 responses. For more information about this innovative partnership, visit www.pasadenahealthyparks.com

In another exciting partnership, Texas Parks & Wildlife helped the department launch The Neighborhood Fishin’ Program at Burke Crenshaw Park. Every other week, the park’s lake is stocked and ready for neighborhood anglers. Channel Catfish are stocked in the warm months and Rainbow Trout during cool months. Residents with a valid Texas Freshwater Fishing License only need to bring their gear and bait for free year-round fishing!

Special Events

Special events stretch across community interest and fill every season in Pasadena. Whether you’re indoors or out, there are loads of free or low-cost ways to entertain the family. From library workshops to the Pasadena Rodeo, our city is famous for our community spirit and volunteerism.

During the spring, residents gear up for the world-famous Strawberry Festival at the Pasadena Convention Center. This weekend full of family fun and record-setting strawberry shortcake servings is one of the events that put Pasadena on the map.

During the summer, Pasadena’s 4th Fest wows the crowds with spectacular fireworks and a star-studded concert. Most recently Texas Country Music Icon, Kevin Fowler, played to a packed house at this annual admission-free celebration.

Fall in Pasadena means food, family and the Philharmonic! When the temperatures drop the magic heats up as the Pasadena Philharmonic Orchestra entertains at their October concert in the park. Complete with food trucks and an outdoor movie, this family-friendly event is also free and open to the public.

The winter holiday season in Pasadena would not be complete without the Pasadena City Hall Christmas Tree Lighting and the Holiday Lighted Parade. Filling the first weekend in December these two events feature student performances, thousands of twinkling lights and the joy that only comes from a tight-knit community focused on family.

Community Spirit Programs

Pasadena’s community engagement is fueled by the philanthropic spirit of our residents and business leaders. There are multiple opportunities throughout the year for community members to volunteer or make donations that will directly benefit local residents.

Collection events like Fill the Bus and the Can-Do Food Drive help stock classrooms and food pantries. The annual Team Up to Clean Up event benefits veterans, senior citizens or disabled residents by connecting non-profit volunteer groups with homeowners in need of minor
repairs.

All of these wonderful events and so much more are made possible by key partnerships and collaborations. The strength of individual entities like the City of Pasadena, Pasadena ISD, the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce, local nonprofits and industry leaders become even greater when combined. As these relationships continue to grow, so will the opportunities and offerings for our amazing residents.

Calendar of Events in Pasadena Texas 2020

JANUARY

  • New Year’s Day
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day

FEBRUARY

MARCH
  • St. Patrick’s Day
  • Membership Luncheon
APRIL
  • Easter
  • State of the Precinct Membership Luncheon
May
June
  • Father’s Day
July
August
September
October
November
December

Pasadena Chamber

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Companies who exhibit financial stewardship, active involvement in community organizations, participation in local events and lending resources are considered for this award. This award is announced annually at the State of the City Luncheon. 

2019 Business of the Year: PinnacleART

PinnacleART, a Chamber member since 2011, has been involved in sponsoring various events, serving on the board of directors and supporting Impact Pasadena. Chambers focus on economic development and this company has certainly contributed to the economic wellbeing of Pasadena through its 18-acre campus with more than 900 employees and a successful intern program. Not only do they commit to making the world reliable through the services they offer, they are committed to serving the community through partnerships with local food banks, PISD science fairs and global children’s initiatives.

INDUSTRY OF THE YEAR

Industry plays a major role in the economic development and growth of Pasadena. Recipients of this award exemplify characteristics of involvement in charitable organizations, community projects, and positively impacting the business community. Award winners focus on safety, environmental and quality control standards. This award is recognized annually at the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce’s Industrial Appreciation Golf Tournament & Luncheon each spring.

2019 Industry of the Year: Waste Management

Waste Management actively supports many Chamber events and community projects and celebrations. Extending their service to these special events, helping to host them or providing employee volunteers, Waste Management, a national top employer and an award-winning steward of our environment, is involved in activities that help make Pasadena a safer and stronger place to live, work and play.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

The Citizen of the Year is the highest award given to one individual annually. The person receiving this award is someone who exhibits a level of dedication and contributions to Pasadena above and beyond the call of duty. This prestigious award is presented at the Chamber’s gala each year.

2019 Citizen of the Year:
Sherry Bufkin was raised in Pasadena and has always had a heart to serve. A determined spirit combined with a willingness to do whatever is asked makes her the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year. She has volunteered with the Pasadena Livestock Show & Rodeo since the 70’s. She is an active member of the Pasadena Rotary Club and attends Life Bridge Baptist Church of Deer Park.  Sherry and her husband Roy hosted their Winter Wonderland Christmas for 25 years as a gift to the community. She has been a part of the banking community for over 47 years and has used her career as a platform to benefit area students. As a proud representative of Allegiance Bank, Sherry has continued to serve through her involvement with the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce.

Starting out many years ago as a volunteer, Sherry has served on every committee for every major event with the Pasadena Chamber. She has given of her time, talent and treasure to ensure events like the Annual Industrial Appreciation Golf Tournament and Taste of the Town are a success. Sherry works tirelessly to recruit the sponsors and contributors that are vital to the success of these events and more. Shery has long epitomized her motto, “Those who can, do. Those who can do more, volunteer” and for that we are all truly grateful.

The Spirit of Community Award 2019

Honoring a Chamber member nonprofit organization or church annually, that intentionally invests time and resources in our community and Chamber. The recipient should demonstrate the action required to create awareness around the needs of others and take steps to meet those needs through education, connections and service.

Neighborhood Network

Neighborhood Network is working to build new neighborhood organizations and partnering with existing organizations to share ideas and resources. They are the driving force behind Pasadena’s National Night Out. Their newest initiative, Team Up to Clean Up, is designed to assist elderly, disabled and low-income homeowners with small exterior home repairs, trash removal and landscaping providing almost $70,000 in home improvements. They are a Can Do Food Drive partner and work closely with the Mayor’s office and Code Enforcement to identify unkept or underutilized city owned buildings striving to rid our neighborhoods of these eyesores making Pasadena beautiful one project at a time.


Living in Pasadena

From single-family, mid-century modern homes just minutes from Downtown Houston to luxury high-rise condos on Clear Lake Bay, the City of Pasadena’s geographical footprint has residential real estate options for everyone. As our job market continues to grow, so does the desire for quality, upscale living.

According to recent market analysis, Pasadena’s average residential single-family lot measures 11,000 square feet. That’s almost twice as large as most residential lots just a few miles away, inside the 610 Loop, at a fraction of the cost.

A commuter’s best-kept secret, Pasadena is situated between Highway 225 & Interstate 45, straddling the East Sam Houston Tollway. This prime location allows for speedy travel to high-profile destinations such has:  Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, the Port of Houston and Galveston Bay.

Beginning summer 2020, City of Pasadena crews will start construction utilizing a recent $105M FEMA grant designed to substantially help flood mitigation during future hurricane seasons. Add that to several other multi-million dollar road improvement projects happening throughout the city, and residents stretching from Pasadena’s historic north side down to the Armand Bayou Nature Center area will be seeing major infrastructure and travel upgrades. 

As San Jacinto College and the University of Houston-Clear Lake continue to prepare local millennials for the reenergized job market, Pasadena is meeting that housing demand with luxury new apartment and townhome construction. Situated in Pasadena’s southernmost location near the Armand Bayou Nature Center, these desirable properties are just minutes from NASA, Space Center Houston and UHCL. 

The Middlebrook Apartments, by Hill Country developer, Oden-Hughes, will cover 21 acres and offer 380 units at the corner of Bay Area Boulevard and Middlebrook Drive. Residents of the gated community will enjoy a fitness center, sparkling pool and dog park.

Armanwilde by Bayway Homes, offers Mediterranean-style townhouses with lake views starting in the $300’s. This gated enclave is just blocks away from Galveston Bay and conveniently situated between Kemah Boardwalk and Pasadena’s Bayport industrial area.

If you’re looking for single-family properties, Pasadena boasts development in several areas. The new Parkway Trails subdivision is conveniently located near San Jacinto College and The Pasadena Convention Center. The largest new neighborhood in almost two decades, Parkway Trails is the brainchild of nationally-known K. Hovnanian Homes. This thoughtfully-designed master-planned community features 181 luxury townhomes and over 325 single-family homes.

Boutique communities are on the rise as well, with the development of the Hidden Cove and Terreno Vista properties. Located off Vista Road near HCA Pasadena Hospital, both properties offer new homes in a variety of floorplans. Zoned to Pasadena ISD’s award-winning Pasadena Memorial High School, these stylish home sites are generating a lot of interest.

The variety of strong neighborhood options is what makes Pasadena a great choice for homebuyers,  said Planning Director Deanna Schmidt. “The Planning Department takes pride in creating great neighborhoods. When you select a home in Pasadena, you become part of the neighborhood. Pasadena’s neighborhoods are its hidden gems.”

The City’s Neighborhood Network Department is an invaluable free resource for any neighborhood group, civic association or HOA within Pasadena city limits. This team of specialists assist in education, public-safety awareness and matching grant opportunities. The recent addition of more than 30 new Pasadena police officers and an expanded Code Enforcement Department boasts Pasadena’s commitment to safety and beatification for our community with quality, affordable living for all Pasadena residents


Education

The viability of any community rests in large measure upon the success of its local schools. Pasadena thrives with excellent educational opportunities through the diverse cultures of the Pasadena Independent School District, San Jacinto College District, University of Houston-Clear Lake and Texas Chiropractic College and their respective nationwide recognition. To accommodate Pasadena’s growing population, public and private schools are expanding alongside an increase in continuing education programs for adults seeking alternative certifications or specialized skills.

Education is also found through professional development programs such as IMPACT Pasadena, a transformative leadership experience designed to develop Pasadena’s next generation of business and community leaders.  Focused on economic vitality, social sustainability and community engagement, IMPACT Pasadena brings together rising leaders across all industry sectors embarking on a year-long journey of experiential learning and personal growth.

The Pasadena Independent School District is the 16th largest school district in Texas and is home to over 56,000 students served through 67 campuses. Pasadena ISD offers innovative and inspiring educational programs recognized throughout the region that begins with full day Pre-K initiatives and continues through high school. When students graduate, many of them carry numerous college credit hours, associate degrees, industry certifications and clearly defined career pathways. The accomplishments aren’t limited to educational accolades. Through Pasadena ISD’s fine arts, athletics and academic programs, students have infinite opportunity to showcase their talents and shine.

Pasadena Chamber members such as First Baptist Christian Academy and St. Pius V Catholic School offer educational experiences for those families seeking alternatives to public schools for children in grade school. Pasadena’s faith-based institutions challenge students to develop and sustain a relationship with Jesus Christ through curriculum that includes bible classes, chapel services and a focus on service to the community and academic excellence.

And, with organizations like Communities In Schools Texas Joint Venture, that provide high-quality programs during the school day and afterschool to improve academics, behavior, attendance, promotion, and graduation rates. CIS provides homework help, tutoring, enrichment, health and wellness, character education, college and career readiness, family engagement, social services and service learning. 

Regardless of the institution, Pasadena children have access to obtain the education desired and the resources available to meet each families need. Upon graduation young adults have access to many options in higher education right in Pasadena to continue to achieve success for their desired pathway.

San Jacinto College

Surrounded by monuments of history, industries and maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has been serving the citizens of East Harris County, Texas, since 1961. As a fiscally sound institution, the college currently holds bond ratings of AA and Aa2 by Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s, respectively. San Jacinto College is a top 10 community college in the country, receiving the 2019 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence and the 2017 Aspen Prize Rising Star Award (ranking it as one of the top five community colleges in the country), and an Achieving the Dream Leader College. This is due to the commitment of the board of trustees, faculty and staff in helping students complete what they start at San Jacinto College.

Approximately 45,000 credit and non-credit students each semester benefit from a support system that maps out a pathway for success. The college offers eight areas of study with more than 200 degree and certificate options that prepare a diverse body of students to transfer to four-year colleges or universities or enter the workforce with the skills needed to support the growing industries along the Texas Gulf Coast. San Jacinto College’s impact on the region totals $1.3 billion in added income, which supports 13,044 jobs.

For more information about San Jacinto College, call (281) 998‑6150 or visit online at www.sanjac.edu

Texas Chiropractic College

As one of the most respected colleges of its kind in the United States, Texas Chiropractic College has been at the forefront of patient-centered health care for more than 110 years. Striving to develop professionals who are practice-ready, the college offers Doctor of Chiropractic and Bachelor of Science in Human Biology degrees.

Texas Chiropractic College educates the next generation of chiropractors from all over the world to train at its highly ranked program. Its mission is to not only provide future practitioners with a top-tier education, but to go further: to have students graduate as compassionate, ethical and skilled healthcare professionals.

When it comes to chiropractic education, the college focuses on combining practical knowledge with skills, abilities and opportunities to put learning into practice. Its faculty not only respects the principles upon which this holistic healing method was founded, but also passes them on to the next generation of chiropractors. By sharing both the history of this health care discipline along with the latest evidence-informed chiropractic health care, the college carries on the tradition of high-quality professional leadership and training.

To find out more information on this respected chiropractic resource, please visit txchiro.edu.

University of Houston-Clear Lake

For more than 40 years, University of Houston-Clear Lake has launched the careers of astronauts, scientists, best-selling authors and entrepreneurs. Whether you are just starting your college search or looking to take the next step in your career, we have you covered.

The university offers more than 90 degree programs for undergraduate and graduate students through four academic colleges. Students can enroll full-time or part-time and take classes during the day, evening and online. Additionally, courses are offered at university locations in Pearland and the Texas Medical Center, so students have flexibility in earning their degrees. More than 100 student organizations and campus traditions provide opportunities to get involved and form new friendships.

The addition of the first on-campus residence hall, Hunter Hall, gives students the opportunity to live steps away from to their classes, engage with others outside the classroom and stay connected to campus resources.

The university is home to a diverse community of more than 9,000 students along with professors and staff who are committed to your success. Nearly 40 percent of its students are Hispanic, making it a Hispanic Serving Institution, while many others come from countries around the world. Campus programs and resources embrace diversity at all levels to create an enriching student experience.

This year, University of Houston-Clear Lake is the highest-ranked regional university in Texas on the U.S. News & World Report’s 2020 rankings for Top Public Schools, and ranked 25th on the list for Best Value Schools. Learn more at www.uhcl.edu.

Today’s jobs require education and training, and not all individuals feel traditional colleges are the right match, which is why programs at Interactive College of Technology or Texas Carpenters & Millwrights Houston Training Center are viable options to meet your needs. These organizations focus on smaller class sizes, skilled instructors and hands on experiences in order to obtain the training and certifications necessary for those looking for a new career path or to gain the knowledge, skills and experience today’s employer’s demand.  In 2019, San Jacinto College opened the doors to its new LyondellBasell Center for Petrochemical, Energy, & Technology, which will lead the way in training the advanced workforce to meet the growing demands of the industry.

Collectively the Chamber’s goal is to enable and motivate students at all ages to attain skills and knowledge they need to reach their potential to become productive members of a global society. We accomplish this through collaborative partnerships focused on promoting education for all and providing opportunities for business to engage with future workforce through essential internship learning environments and real world experiences. The Pasadena Chamber will continue to work towards connecting our community together and building partnerships that make an impact and we invite our member businesses to be a part of the process.

Letter from the Superintendent

Pasadena ISD serves over 53,000 students at 68 traditional, alternative and career-centered campuses — covering an 85-mile radius. We are currently the 16th largest school district in the state of Texas and employ more than 8,200 individuals, many of whom call the great City of Pasadena home. Discover the great opportunities that Pasadena ISD has to offer.

Through continuous support of our community, local businesses and organizations, students have access to innovative programs and technology-driven resources which empower them to take on challenges tailored to their personal interests, skills and the job market. From personalized learning, advanced placement, real-world experiences, internships and more, Pasadena ISD empowers students to take ownership of their educational experience.

Our students are offered a variety of choices when considering their future. Some of these options include the following:

Full-Day Prekindergarten – We are excited about the continual expansion of our full-day prekindergarten program.  As the program expands each year, we see increasing student growth in literacy and mathematical knowledge.  Our four-year-olds are prepared for kindergarten!

Dual Language – The program is designed to promote bilingualism and bi-literacy, cross-cultural competency and boost academic achievement for students of all backgrounds.

Connect Personalized Learning – The Connect digital learning platform available at 41 campuses empowers students to work independently, in a group or with a mentor on lessons offered through classroom instruction or through online programs.

Early College High School – ECHS, available at each comprehensive high school, provides students with an opportunity to earn an Associate Degree along with their high school diploma.

Three Schools of Choice – The Lewis Career and Technical High School, Tegeler Career Center and Community School offer an educational experience that meets the diverse needs of students.

Career and Technical Pathways — Pasadena ISD’s comprehensive high schools provide students with access to five endorsements including: STEAM, Business and Industry, Arts and Humanities, Public Services and Multidisciplinary. Each endorsement includes career-related pathways based on interest or skill set.

Advanced Placement – Advanced Placement students have the opportunity to earn qualifying scores which count as college and university credit.

Dual Credit – Students can earn college and high school credit simultaneously as part of the Dual Credit pathway. Courses are offered in a variety of subjects including math, science, English, economics, history, various foreign languages, government and various technical courses through our partnership with San Jacinto Community College Central and South Campuses.

College Now – Each traditional high school offers students a chance to work with College Now coordinators who guide students through the process of applying for and gaining acceptance to college.

From our innovative programs to our outstanding learning environments and accomplishments, we have so many reasons to be Pasadena proud. Thank you for your continued support of our school district. Discover the possibilities, discover Pasadena ISD. Discover Pasadena ISD at www.pasadenaisd.org/PowerOfChoice

Sincerely,
Dr. DeeAnn Powell

Pasadena ISD 2018-2019 Statistics

GENERAL INFORMATION
Total Campuses: 68
High Schools: 7
Intermediate: 10
Middle: 11
Elementary: 36
Alternative: 4

STUDENT ENROLLMENT
Total Enrollment: 53,029
Gifted: 5%
Special Education: 11%
English Language Learners: 29%
Career and Technical: 21%

STUDENT BREAKDOWN
African-American: 7%
Hispanic: 84%
Caucasian: 5%
Asian: 3%
Other: 1%
STAFFING
Total Employees: 8,279
Teachers: 3,993
Auxiliary Staff: 1,983
Aides: 1,549
Professional Support: 287
Campus Admin: 212
Central Office: 255

STUDENT PERFORMANCE/PARTICIPATION
Graduate Rate: 89.9%
Number of Graduates: 3,556
Average SAT Score: 1,001
Dual Credit / Cumulative Hours Earned: 15,964
Students Enrolled in AP Courses: 5,069