Monahans-Wickett-Pyote ISD 2019 Bond New Elementary
Three years of planning and community workshops shaped the visionary design of the New Monahans Elementary. Tasked with forecasting enrollment and assessing facilities, Parkhill identified a need for space to accommodate 900 students, driven by growth and the replacement of aging infrastructure. However, the community raised critical concerns about ensuring quality education and personalized attention in a school of that size. Together, we explored solutions, balancing innovation, academic excellence, and cost efficiency.
Inventive Solutions for Personalized Learning
Through months of dialogue and research, the community embraced a hybrid design: two 450-student schools housed within a single building. This approach divided the campus into four 225-student “cities,” each further broken down into collaborative “neighborhoods.” These neighborhoods foster smaller instructional settings and include shared spaces like classrooms, collaboration zones, and teacher Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). The design enhances student engagement and ensures a tailored learning environment that prioritizes individual growth.
Smart Design for Cost and Community Impact
The single-campus model optimizes resources by integrating shared facilities, including a kitchen, library, cafeteria, and fine arts area, saving 18,100 square feet. This design is projected to save the district $5 million in construction costs and $32 million in ownership costs over 40 years. By combining cost efficiency with a student-centered vision, the New Monahans Elementary sets a benchmark for future-ready education, proving that collaboration and thoughtful design can truly empower communities and transform learning.
