Construction has commenced on a new high school in the Del Valle Independent School District (ISD), designed by Pfluger Architects. The facility, focused on Career and Technical Education (CTE), aims to accommodate 2,400 students in the Central Texas tech corridor. Scheduled for completion in August 2027, the campus will cover 473,338 square feet and include a main academic building, field house, concession areas, and baseball/softball facilities.
The high school is being built by American Constructors on a 78-acre site in Whisper Valley, East Austin. This area is part of a $2 billion green master-planned community that will eventually feature 7,500 net-zero homes. The design incorporates geothermal energy systems and solar readiness to align with Whisper Valley’s environmental goals. Additionally, HVAC system condensation will be reused for irrigation to reduce water demand.
Local materials such as Texas limestone and locally manufactured brick are used in construction. The layout includes open courtyards and promenades providing natural light and outdoor views to classrooms. Heather Rule from Pfluger Architects highlighted the Learning Courtyard as central to the design: “Central to the whole design is the Learning Courtyard that creates both visual and physical connections – encouraging interaction and supporting a sense of belonging across campus.”
The new facility also features separate athletics and fine arts spaces accessible to the community while maintaining security for academic areas. These facilities are comparable to those at Del Valle High School. The CTE programs will expand with new offerings like cosmetology.
Christian Owens of Pfluger Architects emphasized equity in design: “Equity was a driving factor in the campus design, ensuring the new school offers the same learning opportunities as the existing high school.” Superintendent Dr. Matthew Gutierrez added: “This is going to be a world-class facility where students have access to a wealth of educational and real-world opportunities that prepare them for success following graduation.”
The project is part of Del Valle ISD’s 2022 bond initiative aimed at addressing overcrowding at Del Valle High School. It also funded land purchases for future schools in Whisper Valley.
Pfluger Architects Inc., known for its expertise in educational facility planning, continues its commitment to creating engaging learning environments across Texas.
Learn more about Pfluger Architects at https://pflugerarchitects.com/.
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