Irving ISD — Magda A. Hernández Institute of Wellness and Professional Learning
Architect: WRA Architects
“The Magda A. Hernández Institute of Wellness and Professional Learning spans 24,000 square feet, and sits adjacent to the Jack E. Singley Academy campus and Elise Walker Outdoor Learning Center in Irving, Texas. The institute’s innovative design maximizes its unique, sloped location to create a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor environments, supporting Irving ISD’s three core program areas: Parent and Community Engagement, Employee Wellness, and Professional Development.
By integrating biophilic design principles, the institute not only serves educational and wellness needs, but also connects users to the surrounding natural landscape, enriching the experience for the entire Irving ISD community.”
Design
“Biophilic Strategies for Natural Connectivity
The Magda A. Hernández Institute of Professional Learning and Wellness (MAHI) exemplifies design excellence by integrating nature, thoughtful organization, and adaptability. Initially envisioned as a three-story building, the design evolved into a two-story split-level structure to harmonize with the 20-foot site slope. This enhanced site circulation and accessibility.
Biophilic design principles guided the project, leveraging natural elements, views, and materials to create an uplifting atmosphere for professional learning. Views into nature and greenery placed around the interior provide calming environments that align with the project’s wellness goals. The adjacency to the district’s outdoor learning center inspired a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, reinforcing the project’s vision.
The facility’s layout supports a variety of learning and teaching styles with flexible, reconfigurable spaces that accommodate everything from small workshops to large seminars. The design also prioritizes intuitive flow and functional zoning, allowing for simultaneous, diverse uses within a compact floor plan. The roof deck serves as a dynamic venue for large events and also optimizes the building’s usable square footage.”
Value
“Built For and By the Community
MAHI demonstrates exceptional value through smart financial planning and cost-effective design strategies.
Funded through TIF dollars designated for capital projects, the facility was built at no direct cost to the community, demonstrating fiscal responsibility.
In response to post-COVID challenges, MAHI was designed to support staff wellness and promote mental and physical well-being, while aiding teacher retention.
Robust cost-saving exercises reduced overall project costs by 20–25% while preserving core programming and design intent. Efficient layout and circulation maximized functionality without increasing square footage, resulting in savings. Material selections focused on durability and have low life-cycle costs. Construction methods were chosen to minimize waste and allow ease of future maintenance.
Most importantly, the flexible design supports multiple district initiatives such as professional development, adult education, and community programs under one roof, maximizing the district’s return on investment.
MAHI proves that high-performance design can also be cost-effective, sustainable, and impactful.”
Wellness
“A Blueprint for Holistic Wellness
Wellness is a foundational pillar of the Magda A. Hernández Institute of Professional Learning and Wellness (MAHI). The building’s biophilic design fosters mental and emotional well-being through abundant natural light, calming color palettes, organic materials, and intentional views of nature. Its adjacency to the district’s outdoor learning center further promotes connection to the environment and outdoor learning opportunities.
MAHI plays a central role in Ignite Irving; the city’s Blue Zones initiative aimed at increasing lifespan and reducing disease through healthier lifestyles. As a partner in this global movement, Irving ISD and MAHI promote research-based wellness strategies across mental health, nutrition, fitness, and financial well-being, empowering staff and community members alike.
Equity and inclusion are embedded in the building’s design, with fully accessible spaces that ensure every visitor can benefit from its programs. From flexible wellness programming to holistic staff support, MAHI is more than a facility; it’s Irving ISD’s wellness hub, delivering long-term value and reinforcing the district’s belief that healthy educators and families lead to stronger student outcomes.”
Community
“A Space Where All Are Welcome
MAHI is a source of pride for Irving ISD’s diverse community. The facility was intentionally designed to serve as a hub for parent engagement, adult education, and wellness initiatives. Programs like Adult Education and Literacy (AEL), Parent Education and Community Involvement (PE&CE), and Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) are now housed under one building, elevating their visibility and impact.
Community input shaped the final design through a series of design charrettes and stakeholder meetings.
This participatory process ensured the building would become a place of belonging and empowerment for all users, staff, families, and neighbors.
The facility supports community well-being through assistance programs that help families access essentials like affordable housing and clothing donations. As part of the Ignite Irving initiative, MAHI plays a pivotal role in advancing Blue Zones strategies, positioning the Institute as a cornerstone of the district’s long-term vision for a healthier, more connected community.”
Planning
“Where Education, Wellness, and Community Thrive
MAHI was rooted in collaborative planning from the start. Multiple design charrettes and departmental meetings engaged stakeholders across disciplines, ranging from district leadership to program facilitators, to ensure the building fulfilled a shared educational mission.
The vision was developed as a “”three-legged stool,”” supported by three core pillars: professional development, community and parent engagement, and wellness. These priorities directly shaped programming and planning decisions, resulting in a facility that translates educational values through architecture.
Every element, from circulation patterns to site orientation, was designed with intention, using stakeholder feedback to fine-tune the relationship between physical space and learning experience. This transparent and inclusive process built strong community buy-in and created a design aligned with real user needs, setting MAHI up for long-term success.”
School Transformation
“A Shared Vision Come to Life
MAHI transforms the educational experience by redefining what a professional learning center can be. More than just a training space, it functions as a living model for collaborative, wellness-oriented education. Its central location empowers teachers and staff across the district, reducing barriers to access and reinforcing its role as a cultural and educational anchor.
The flexible spaces, wellness-driven design, and community-integrated programming all inspire a new way of thinking about how professional development is delivered.
By seamlessly merging the natural environment with intentional, mission-aligned design, the facility offers a space that motivates, supports, and uplifts every individual who walks through its doors.”
Star of Distinction Category Winner