Pasadena ISD—George A. Thompson Intermediate School
Architects: GPD Group
The Intermediate School replaces the original facility built in 1972, which sustained significant damage during Hurricane Harvey. The new two-story school supports 1,200 students in grades 7-8 and boasts a tradition of excellence in academics, athletics, student leadership, and service. Interior colors, signage, displays, and graphics reaffirm the school’s pride, legacy, and identity. Two wings of future-ready, flexible classrooms support next-generation learning using a technology-engaged active learning model.
Design
The grand scale of the main entrance and overhang doubles as an embrace for those entering the building beneath its canopy. A patio and courtyard between classroom wings allows natural light into every classroom and separates quiet learning from noisy activities in the school. Wide corridors, flex areas outside of classrooms, mobile technology, and versatile Furniture accommodate a variety of teaching and learning styles. The legacy of the school is revealed in colors and graphics as well as artifacts from the old building, fostering a sense of pride and belonging for the students.
Value
A large multifunctional area sits at the heart of the school, distinguished by a curved learning stair. At the top of the stair, the library offers study areas, a makerspace, and abundant outdoor views. Two double-story classroom wings separate traditional “quiet” classrooms from “noisier” spaces (art, science) for more focused environments. Cost-per-SF was significantly less than other area school projects at the time ($223 vs $250). Energy-efficient systems cut long-term costs. Stacked restrooms limit plumbing and chases, reducing cost and maintenance issues.
Wellness
Transformative design of the new school has resulted in fewer behavior issues and better test scores. With flexible learning environments and access to the latest technology, students have ample opportunity to learn, study and practice in their own unique ways. Students feel safe on the campus, which was designed with CPTED safety principles, secure entrances, and wide, open spaces inside and around the building. Every aspect of design intentionally supports the school’s mission to educate students in an engaging, inspiring, and challenging learning environment.
Community
The replacement school is a symbol of new beginnings for the community following the devastation Hurricane Harvey brought to the area. Located along a main route at the southern border of the district, the school serves as a gateway into the community and a hub for the neighborhood. The mix of traditional and modern elements on the exterior gives the campus a clean, timeless appearance reminiscent of the community. Design of the building embraces the history and culture of its community, giving families a sense of ownership and belonging.
Planning
During design, the district engaged in a land swap with a developer to re-site the school on a more prominent site due to concerns from the zoning board that the original site was too close to homes that are served by the adjacent school district. Project stakeholders and district personnel were fully active participants in the design process being led by the Architecture/Engineering team. Every space, both inside and out, was thoroughly vetted for current-use needs and flexible, future-ready learning.
School Transformation
Every aspect of design supports the school’s mission to educate students in an engaging, inspiring, and challenging learning environment. An innovative science wing maximizes flexibility as each of the 5 labs sits between 2 classrooms with operable garage doors for sharing spaces. The library at the top of the learning stair is open and inviting – a stark contrast to the old library which was tucked away with limited access. There are ample opportunities to get outside, with play courts and a field, an art studio terrace, and a covered patio which opens into the courtyard.
Star of Distinction Category Winner