Borger ISD—Borger High School
Architects: Parkhill
“The project intent was to create a separate area for 9th graders at the High school to ease social and academic transitions. The District’s goal was to move their educational delivery at the secondary level to be more student-centered and collaborative, to leverage peer-to-peer and project-based learning modalities. This goal was realized in the central core of the existing high school in the renovation of the traditional library to differentiated areas for research, small group and large group instruction.
Efficiency of space and reduction in student travel for the preservation of instructional time led to adaption of an old, seldom utilized gymnasium being converted into a two-story 9th grade center. Lab spaces capture natural light from the original windows upstairs and a social stair and central collaboration area provide vertical circulation to classrooms downstairs.
Community goals were also met through reconstruction of the courtyard, providing outdoor gathering space and celebrating the original Art Deco façade of the High School. The design improved accessibility of the campus from parking areas and also increased walkability of the campus, complimenting the City’s Downtown Revitalization plan. With limited funding available in bonding capacity, renovation of the high school became the best option, and the adaptation of the gym space provided great value in saving more than $2 million.”
Design
“Re-imagination of the gymnasium helped reduce freshmen travel across the campus and consolidate academic flow to one area. Original windows flood the new 9th grade academic wing with natural light, creating bright collaboration areas. Reclaimed gym wood flooring is used throughout to accent community gathering and collaboration spaces. Differentiated space for quiet work, research, small group projects and large group instruction was created in the library.”
Value
“Redesigning the old gymnasium into instructional space maximized efficiency and flexibility, benefiting the campus, district, and community. Repurposing saved $2 million and diverted 620 cubic yards of waste from landfills. Plumbing was re-utilized as two old locker rooms were converted to a culinary arts lab, saving $250,000. A school within a school – within a gym preserves District history and heritage.”
Wellness
N/A
Community
“The transformation of the historic campus celebrates the community’s heritage while meeting modern educational needs. Preserving the iconic art deco facade honors the town’s history. Inside, redesigned spaces foster collaboration and immersive learning, reflecting the commitment to 21st-century education. The courtyard enhances accessibility by limiting steps and handrails, and serves as a vibrant gathering space with an emphasis on walkability and access to multi-modal transportation ”
Planning
N/A
School Transformation
“The project redefines how District 9th graders transition to high school, giving them agency and belonging, through an academically distinct but corporately connected space rich in community history. Design collaborations were generational, with current parents, grandparents and students defining the vision. Separation of freshmen from older students is achieved without sacrificing the original gym, or the need for modern, differentiated learning areas. End-of-course exam scores increased.”
Star of Distinction Category Winner