Resource Sharing and Technology Innovation

This innovative small district had set an ambitious goal for this project. They wanted to provide a technology-rich, 21st century learning environment to their High School and Middle School students, while optimizing space and resources. The proposed solution took the existing obsolete High School building and re-purposed it into a Middle School. This renovated facility was joined to a new High School, creating a single campus for the district's 1400 students in grades 6-12. The campus grows around a common administrative and welcome area, and students share vital resources such as the library, cafeteria, performing arts and athletic facilities. Even teachers and some classroom spaces are shared, promoting collaboration and idea sharing between grade levels.

As the student population continues to grow, and as the district passes future bonds, 6-8th graders will eventually be transferred to a new Middle School facility, and the campus will be restructured to accommodate the 9th and 10th grades in the existing facility, using the new addition for upper classmen. By adequately providing for future growth, this facility ensures long term value for Giddings ISD.

Technology connects the school to the world, but it also creates a smart, secure, energy-efficient facility. All components of the technology platform: computers, screens, projectors, security cameras, lighting and mechanical systems and HVAC - are connected to a central server which can be controlled remotely, providing unique opportunities such as distance learning, energy savings, and 24-hour remote security. Wireless access is provided throughout the campus, allowing for learning to continue outside of the classroom. The technology rich campus aims to accommodate the many different ways that students learn - by lecture, research, informal collaboration, etc - ensuring that all types of learners are meaningfully engaged.