2016—Boulter Middle School

Tyler ISD—Boulter Middle School
Architect: Fitzpatrick Architects

This project consisted of new construction to replace an existing campus on the original site of Boulter Middle School, and was constructed while the existing campus was still in use. This new  6th-8th grade middle school campus contains: 32 classrooms, 2 Project Lead the Way labs, 3 computer labs, Media Center with Distance Learning room, Game and practice gyms, Locker facilities, Collaborative spaces for each grade level, Track and turf athletic field w/ bleacher seating for 500.

Community

Boulter Middle School is nestled in a neighborhood where many of the students live. The original campus was an assortment of dilapidated buildings that lacked any sense of identity. The new building brings a strong, educational presence to the neighborhood, while providing a more secure learning environment. The new running track and turf field provide the community a place to exercise and play after school hours, and overall promote a sense of pride in the community.

Design

Each level of the classroom area places groups of six classrooms around a collaboration space, giving the opportunity for break out groups or for large group learning. The design of the building separates the the classroom areas from the noisier physical and musical education classes, with the Project Lead the Way labs and computer labs near the center of the building, emphasizing the importance of introducing technology to the students.

Planning

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Sustainability

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Value

Because low cost of ownership was important to the District, durable materials were chosen for high traffic areas. Corridors, restrooms and other key, “touchable” areas were lined with large format ceramic tile wainscots providing high durability and reducing painting cycles. Mechanical system and lighting control are enhanced by integrating their control systems into a District wide energy management system.

School Transformation

Boulter Middle School participates in the Project Lead the Way program and STEM with a focus on engineering prep. An important programmatic requirements was for labs and work spaces for the students involved in Project Lead the Way. These learning spaces are located near the main entry corridor and along the path to the classroom wing. The labs have large windows along the corridor walls that allow students and visitors to see into the spaces and observe the students working in the labs.

Stars of Distinction Star of Distinction Category Winner