Godley ISD—Godley High School – The WILD
Architect: Huckabee, a MOREgroup brand
The WILD (Wildcat Innovative Learning Destination) at Godley High School is a four-story CTE center integrated into the home side of the football stadium, transforming a traditionally single-use venue into an active year-round learning destination. Designed for flexibility and real-world experience, the facility supports multiple CTE programs through adaptable classrooms, labs, and outdoor learning spaces while also expanding stadium seating, athletics facilities, and community use. A covered second-floor walkway connects the WILD directly to the main campus, strengthening access between academic and career and technical education spaces. As part of Phase 2 of the district’s master-planned high school expansion, the project builds on earlier campus improvements and advances Godley ISD’s long-term vision for a flexible, future-ready learning environment.
Design
The WILD transforms a constrained campus site into a connected four-story learning destination. Academic spaces shape the design of this dual-purpose CTE and stadium facility, creating an environment active beyond the school day. Vertical stacking, a direct bridge to the main campus, and close adjacencies between labs, classrooms, and outdoor learning spaces create efficient flow throughout the building. Flexible design solutions create dual-purpose spaces that are 34% of the building’s square footage, supporting real-world learning and athletics use.
Value
The WILD maximizes district investment by combining CTE, athletics, and community functions into one flexible facility, eliminating duplicated buildings and saving Godley ISD taxpayers more than $55 million. A compact vertical design responded to site constraints while reducing the footprint and preserving campus operations. With 34% multipurpose space, shared infrastructure, and rooms designed for daily learning and after-hours events, every square foot works harder, supporting long-term flexibility and responsible stewardship of district funds.
Wellness
The WILD supports the whole student through varied learning environments that encourage movement, choice, and connection. Technology-rich labs, student-led enterprises, and inclusive access to specialized programs foster wellness and career exploration for all learners, regardless of their interests. By providing opportunities for students to pursue their passions, the facility helps build confidence and a foundation for future success. Access to daylight and direct indoor-outdoor connections further contribute to an energizing environment.
Community
The WILD strengthens Godley’s sense of community by connecting student learning directly to real local needs. Students operate the campus store, create floral arrangements, repair district Chromebooks, produce media for events, and provide hospitality services during school and community gatherings. This unique integration of academics and athletics creates meaningful opportunities for community engagement. Students actively contribute to the community they call home, building a strong sense of purpose and belonging.
Planning
Planning for The WILD was shaped by Godley ISD’s goals for growth, expanded CTE opportunities, and responsible use of bond dollars. The district engaged the Board of Trustees, leadership, campus staff, CTE program leaders, students, and a Facilities Planning Committee to guide decisions and build consensus. Although during the pandemic, their input informed a flexible, integrated design that supports academic and career pathways, strengthens campus connections, and creates a year-round destination serving students and the broader community.
School Transformation
The WILD redefines learning by turning a traditional football stadium into an active, student-centered educational environment. Classrooms, labs, collaboration spaces, and outdoor learning areas are embedded throughout the facility, creating opportunities for hands-on learning and real-world application every day. Students and staff move between academic, career-focused, and community-centered experiences in one connected space, transforming the campus into a dynamic environment built around learning, discovery, and opportunity.
Star of Distinction Category Winner