Ector County ISD New Buice Elementary School
Parkhill partnered with Ector County ISD to design three site-adapted prototype elementary schools, including the new Buice Elementary. Rooted in 21st Century (21C) learning principles, the design process involved in-depth collaboration with educators, students, and administrators during interactive design charrettes. Using massing models and group discussions, participants shaped the layout of Learning Neighborhoods and key building elements, ensuring the spaces supported ECISD’s instructional goals. Parkhill also helped facilitate a student-led project-based learning activity focused on sustainable design.
Spaces That Support Flexibility and Engagement
The final design centers around a two-story layout of six Learning Neighborhoods, each linked by Learning Hubs. A central commons with a social stair serves as the heart of the school. Surrounding academic zones include collaboration spaces, studios, teacher work areas, and support services. The design encourages flexibility, interaction, and ownership in the learning process.
Preparing Educators for the Future
A unique feature of this project was the development of “pedagogical commissioning,” where Parkhill works directly with ECISD educators to demonstrate how to fully activate the building’s design potential. Buice Elementary reflects a shared vision—a flexible, interactive, and future-ready school that celebrates student agency from the earliest grades.
