Hutto ISD — Gus Almquist Middle School
Architect: VLK
“Rooted in the district’s vision to provide opportunities and choices for students to explore future-ready careers and ignite a passion for what’s next, this reimagined middle school campus blends exploratory learning with authentic, career-connected experiences. At its center, a dynamic courtyard redefines the student experience by seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor learning.
Designed in collaboration with teachers to support TEKS-aligned, hands-on instruction, the courtyard connects directly to science, CTE, art, and core classrooms, creating immediate, meaningful links between academic content and
real-world relevance.
Overlooking this vibrant space, a one-of-a-kind esports arena connects to an elevated library, uniting the inspiration of literature with the energy of competition. Designed to host robotics competitions, student showcases, and large-scale professional development for teachers, the arena embodies the district’s commitment to tech-integrated, community-driven learning.
Grounded in inclusive design, the centrally located pathway to access the stage removes barriers and reimagines the performance space as one of belonging, visibility, and shared experience for all. Both the courtyard and arena serve as active community spaces, welcoming performances, events, and celebrations. Every element, shaped by district, campus, student, and community input, empowers learners to discover their interests, engage deeply, and build confidence for the future.”
Design
“At the heart of this innovative campus is a centralized courtyard that redefines the student experience by seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor learning in a captivating, thought-provoking environment. Collaborating with teachers during design to support TEKS-aligned, active learning, the courtyard offers direct access from science, CTE, art, and general education classrooms, creating immediate opportunities for students to connect academic content to hands-on applications.
From scaled solar system models to practical math activities, this dynamic space brings curriculum to life in tangible and meaningful ways.
With more than half of the general classrooms directly overlooking the courtyard, the design boosts supervision, safety, and connectivity, acting as the unifying thread that links teaching and learning while fostering an inclusive, safe, and engaging environment.
Designed with adaptability in mind, the courtyard visually and physically connects to future-ready learning spaces supporting evolving student interests, creativity, and real-world skill development.”
Value
“Nestled on a compact 26-acres, this project redefines school design by prioritizing student experience, space efficiency, and material simplicity. The project avoided extra real estate costs and preserved green space by utilizing open land on an existing campus site.
Launched during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, the team adopted a “do more with less” approach, reducing square footage and carefully selecting materials without compromising functionality or vision.
Inspired by a geode, modest outside, vibrant within, the building’s unassuming exterior keeps costs and maintenance low, focusing resources on creating vibrant, inspiring interior spaces that enrich daily teaching and learning experiences.”
Wellness
“Rooted in inclusive design, the centrally located, accessible pathway transforms the stage into a place where every student feels seen, valued, and included offering all learners the same shared way to take the spotlight. Positioned at the front, not off to the side, it reimagines performance spaces by removing barriers and inviting every student to shine with confidence and belonging.
Overlooking a vibrant courtyard, the stage, cafeteria, and classrooms are filled with natural light, outdoor access, and views of the district-wide mascot creating a bright, welcoming environment that supports well-being and school pride.
The courtyard, alive with performances, active learning, and community events, serves as an energetic hub for connection and celebration. At the heart of campus, a one-of-a-kind esports arena connects to an elevated library, blending the inspiration of literature with the energy of competition.”
Community
“Bursting with school spirit, the campus proudly celebrates a shared, beloved district-wide mascot, playfully featured at both the main entry and courtyard, as a unifying and welcoming symbol for students, families, and the broader community. This familiar icon, embraced by local businesses and recognized across the district, brings smiles and sparks a sense of belonging for learners.
From the moment you arrive, the campus radiates a strong sense of pride, connection, and student-centered identity. Whether it’s the multifunction e-sports arena that doubles as a regional robotics venue or the central courtyard that comes alive with performances, food trucks, and neighborhood events, every space is thoughtfully designed to foster relationships, welcome all, and serve as a vibrant hub of shared community celebration.”
Planning
“Driven by the district’s mission and shaped by community input, the school’s design brings future-ready learning to life through dynamic, age-appropriate CTE spaces.
The esports arena provides a lively overlook into the cafeteria and courtyard, blending social connection with immersive CTE exploration. Adjacent to the library, the arena anchors aligned CTE programs, fostering cross-curricular collaboration and real-world skill-building.
Student voice informed the planning process, with design elements supporting passions like the well established district’s award-winning robotics team. Aligned with the district’s focus on promoting local industries and workforce development, the space connects learners to real career pathways within their community.”
School Transformation
“A bold reimagining of the middle school experience, this future-ready campus empowers learners and teachers to explore, create, and discover their passions in a dynamic environment built for what’s next.
At its heart is a one-of-a-kind esports arena that seamlessly connects to an elevated library space, uniting the energy of competition with the inspiration of literature. This innovative design redefines how students engage with both digital and written worlds, blending storytelling, strategy, and future-ready skills.
With sightlines from the cafeteria below and expansive views to the courtyard, the arena becomes a central hub filled with natural light and opportunities for connection. It invites all to engage, creating a shared experience that celebrates learning. Buzzing with activity, the space radiates energy that draws students in, where bold graphics, flexible furniture, and purposeful design spark curiosity, community, and passion for the future.”
Star of Distinction Category Winner