| Wednesday, March 30, 2022 | 1:30 – 2:30 PM |
| LIBRARIES | MEDIA CENTERS | MAKER SPACES: Pushing the Boundaries from Quiet and Rigid to Collaborative and Social |
 1 LU
Taking a cue from this year’s conference theme of Wayfinders, School Libraries and Media Centers have taken a sharp and dramatic turn in appearance, behavior and accessibility for today’s students. No other programmatic space in a school today has the educational responsibility and expectation hampered with the diminishing and historical physical limitations as the central library. The once quiet, closed and rigid library is now active, open, transparent and social. Join us as we explore the history and transformation of school libraries as they have developed into becoming the social and cultural epicenter of student collaboration, investigative learning and the academic brand of the next generational school.
Learning Objectives:
- The audience will learn the history and evolution from the Library to the Media Center.
- The audience will learn the student learning benefits regarding today’s innovative Media Centers.
- The audience will learn practical and cost-effective strategies to transform existing libraries.
- The audience will learn how a schools Media Center can impact the school’s brand and social culture.
Speakers:
Patrick Glenn, Partner, Managing Principal, Glenn|Partners
Patrick offers 26 years of educational leadership, planning and architectural design experience spanning a wide range of educational clients. Having planned more than $2B in school construction during his career, Patrick offers unique expertise to help foster creative, flexible and long-term design strategies to better enhance a more personalized, and collaborative learning environment while addressing many of the critical issues facing next-generation students of tomorrow.
Tim McClure, Assistant Superintendent of Facilities, Northwest ISD
Tim’s experience spans for more than twenty years. Tim has a proficiency in construction experience that stems from working on residential and small commercial projects prior to entering the architectural profession. This background has proven to be most beneficial as Tim pursued his education in Architecture. Tim's background in architecture and construction, combined with his detailed experience providing long range planning and budgeting for school districts, allows him to serve in a leadership role with an unmatched capacity. Tim’s strengths continually prove to be a valuable asset throughout all aspects of the industry including visioning, project facilitation, professional presentations, office and team management, programming, schematic design, design development, graphic design, construction drawings and contract administration.
Aaron Ewert, Partner, Director of Design, Glenn|Partners
Aaron brings over 15 years of architectural design experience spanning multiple project typologies. Aaron has led multi-faceted design teams on projects throughout Texas, always with an intense focus on research based and client centric solutions. He is heavily involved throughout the design phases of a project and thrives at bringing clear conceptual ideas that foster impactful environments.
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| Child’s Play – Stakeholder Engagement at Webb Elementary School |
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1 LU
Setting students on the path to becoming engaged and contributing citizens is a part of
preparing them for their future. Schools foster a sense of community and challenge students to reach
their maximum potential. Arlington ISD’s 2019 Bond slated four elementary schools for replacement.
True to their mission to empower students through innovative learning experiences, the District
initiated a program that engaged everyone from the Superintendent to the youngest students. Through
multiple work sessions and varying levels of community engagement, we recognize and honor the
unique spirit of the campus. Take the journey with us at John Webb Elementary School, where bilingual
culture, a history of outreach, and its presence as the heart of its community are embraced and
celebrated.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the district-wide steps taken to ensure individual school
communities have ownership in the design of their new replacement elementary schools.
- Learn
how planned work sessions establish the vision and outcomes of stakeholder engagement.
- Learn
how the work sessions fostered a comfortable and engaging atmosphere where teachers, parents and
students could collaborate and be heard.
- Discover how engagement leads to design outcomes
that reflect the spirit of a diverse, inclusive, and giving school community.
Speakers:
Lisa Lamkin, FAIA, LE Fellow, Principal, BRW Architects
Wm. Kelly Horn, Assistant Superintendent of Facility Services, Arlington ISD
Anne Hildenbrand, Associate Principal, BRW Architects
Anne is the daughter of two collegiate chemists and granddaughter of an artist. She embodies the vision for both right and left-brain thinkers. As Associate Principal for BRW Architects, she leads project teams fostering client relationships on many of the education studio’s most complex projects. Actively involved in the Association for Learning Environments for over a decade, Anne has been designing educational facilities for most of her career and believes that education leads to empowerment and the physical space in which children learn is equally as important as what they are learning. Anne resides in Dallas, Texas.
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| A Comprehensive Approach to the Challenging Issues and Opportunities of Our Time |
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1 LU
Extreme shifts in weather, pandemics, and economic uncertainties are redefining how and when we get things done. But climate change, pandemic and other research is not only helping to define the problems but creative solutions as well. The new Building Back Better plan will provide billions for community-wide infrastructure improvements to support some of these solutions, with some of it available for school sites. This seminar will review three recent findings related to these challenges and opportunities: First is a recent study, funded by the Rockefeller Foundation that identifies some of the most pressing challenges, solutions, and strategies for addressing the complex factors impacting individuals living in climate compromised communities around the world, with special emphasis on the A4LE Southern Region. Second is research by Reimage America’s Schools and the Coalition of Community Schools that outlines an emerging shift towards school facilities that support community-centered learning. And third, the program will address successful strategies for engaging the community in the co-design of comprehensive solutions going forward.
Learning Objectives:
- How to apply the six “Bellagio Principles” as outlined by the Global Transformation Roundtable for climate change planning in the Southern Region.
- How to apply the six principles of “Schools as Centers of Community” to create educational facilities where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
- How to apply the six principles of “Community Co-Design” to engage all stakeholders in an “all of us are smarter than any of us” process of school planning and design.
- How local practitioners and A4LE can serve as catalysts for addressing some of the most challenging issues of our time.
Speakers:
Steven Bingler, AIA, Founder and CEO, Concordia – A Community Centered Planning and Design Firm
Steven Bingler, Concordia, is a dreamer… but he brings those dreams to life! Insightful, creative, thought-provoking, and inspiring, Steven has a unique story to tell – presenting sustainable solutions to the critical changes and demands inherent in transforming education, empowering students and creating true community. Learn how Nexus Centers offer an opportunity to rethink the requisites of 21st Century schools, enhancing learning that extends beyond the classroom, co-locating educational programs with public programs and services such as health, recreation, community centers, retail business and even affordable housing. Broadening the potential of a school by providing real word learning experiences that encourage critical thinking, innovation and collaborative teamwork enables all learners to master the skills they need to take on the challenges of a world defined by change. Steven has a powerful and compelling message, galvanizing communities to join together, think sustainably and develop solutions to global design challenges that inspire transformation in education. Through presentation slides and an overview of successful Nexus Centers in various areas of the country, his congenial and passionate personality captures and motivates his audience to embrace the concept of integrated sustainable facilities, strengthening their communities and ensuring that our young learners will have the tools to lead us into a brighter future.
Bahareh Javadi, Designer, Concordia – A Community Centered Planning and Design Firm
Bahareh is a Planner and Architect Licensure Candidate at Concordia. Her role on the Concordia team includes leading community engagement and managing projects through all phases of design and construction. She received her Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign and Master of Architecture from Tulane University. Bahareh has managed many of Concordia’s educational projects. She has led student engagement efforts, developed Educational Specifications, and helped launch an innovative new school (XQ School: New Harmony High). Bahareh has also managed publicly funded architecture projects from inception through CA, including the NOPD 2nd District Police Station. Bahareh works to share her passion for making a place through her work on a variety of project types and scales. Education and Youth Empowerment are central to Bahareh’s focus. She has taught in a range of capacities at the university level as well as in K-12 contexts in New Orleans, Chicago, and Urbana-Champaign. Bahareh has deep experience as an educationally-focused engagement planner and as an architectural project manager.
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| Thursday, March 31, 2022 | 9:30 – 10:30 AM |
| Inclusive Process Leads to Universal Design |
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1 LU/HSW
See how an inclusive / interactive design process, engages a historically minority community, and allows them to articulate their vision, goals and desires for their modernized school in Austin, Texas. Learn how the goals of Universal Design are met as those desires are effectively translated into a 21st century school.
Learning Objectives:
- Strategies for interactive inclusive community engagement.
- Strategies around creating 21st century learning environments.
- The importance of schools not just as a space for educating students but the heart and center of healthy functioning communities.
- The design principles, implementation and feedback Universal Design, much, much more than just ADA.
Speakers:
Nicola Springer, Exec. Vice President, Kirksey Architecture
Nicola Springer, AIA, LEED AP, is an Executive Vice President and the Director of pK-12 Projects at Kirksey Architecture. With over 21 years of educational design experience, Nicola believes that architecture and the process of design should inspire creativity, engage all users, and create sustainable, healthy and happy environments. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Princeton University and a Master of Architecture from Rice University. Nicola has spoken professionally on the influences and advances of 21st century education, as well as Sustainable Design at Regional and National Conferences including A4LE National, Gulf Coast Green, The Green School National Conference and the TxA Annual Convention.
Victoria North, WELL AP Ph.D. Student, Graduate Research Assistant, North Carolina State University | College of Design
Victoria is a Universal Design subject matter expert with 15+ years of experience leading the advancement of equity and inclusion across buildings, spaces, and communities. She began working in this field with a nonprofit civil rights organization and has since served as a consultant to the design process, collaborating with architects, developers, and community members to achieve fully inclusive spaces in both their design and operation. Victoria believes inclusive design is the next wave of building performance and has spoken on this topic at Greenbuild and AIA National. She is currently pursuing her doctorate at North Carolina State University.
Wendy Mills, Principal, Norman Sims Elementary, Austin ISD
Wendy is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, where she earned both a bachelors and masters in Education. Over the past 13 years, she has served as a campus administrator in Lockhart, Austin and Cedar Hill ISD. Since 2017, she has served in the unique role of principal for both Norman and Sims Elementary Schools in Austin ISD. Both schools have merged successfully under her leadership, and are set to move into their newly modernized campus January 2021. Ms. Mills has a true passion for mentoring and growing other aspiring leaders and supporting turnaround efforts in schools with high populations of economically disadvantaged students.
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| Breaking Down Walls – Re-imagining The Learning Experience |
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1 LU
This session will focus on how a school of choice can re-engage the unplugged learner by breaking down the walls between the expected student performance and the actual student experience. Burleson ISD's REALM Secondary School will serve as an example to show how the conversion of a church and associated special events venue that has been re-imagined to support a gaming academy experience coupled with blended and self-paced learning can serve as a platform for connecting learners through instruction to the real world.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn how a gaming academy can engage an unreached segment of the student population.
- Learn how blended and self-paced learning models can be successfully integrated through professional development and systematic implementation.
- Learn about different programmatic approaches to meeting the project requirements of a school of choice during the evaluation of both the instructional and facility constraints and opportunities.
- Learn about the importance of defining the physical environment to support the goals of the campus.
Speakers:
Terry Hoyle, Chief Executive Officer, Pfluger Architects, Inc.
Mr. Hoyle has spent his 31-year career focused solely on the improvement of learning environments. Terry has a real passion for helping clients who are driven to re-imagine what teaching and learning can look like, how the built environment can create a more meaningful human experience, and the way the overall building systems perform to support instruction, the student experience, and the financial objectives of the campus.
April Chiarelli, Chief Academic Officer, Burleson I.S.D.
April Chiarelli is Burleson ISD's Chief Academic Officer. In her current role she oversees Curriculum & Instruction, Special Services, Counseling, Assessment, Accountability & Federal Programs, and Career & Technical Education. In her 23 years in education she has served as elementary teacher, principal, curriculum coordinator, Executive Director of Learning, and an adjunct professor for doctoral students. She is a DFW native, who grew up in Richardson, TX and received a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Texas Christian University, a Master's Degree in Educational Administration from the University of North Texas, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Texas Wesleyan University.
Crystal Deaver, Principal, Burleson I.S.D.
The 2021-22 school year marks the twelfth year of education for Crystal Deaver, principal of Game Development Design School at Burleson ISD. Prior to becoming principal, she had many leadership experiences including being a lead teacher, instructional coach, and assistant principal across the metroplex. Deaver is currently a doctoral candidate at Texas A&M University Commerce, where she is furthering her Master’s of Education degree in Education Administration. Her educational background was initiated through alternative certification after receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Science from Tarleton State University. As a lifelong learner and dedicated educator, Deaver believes in the power of education and the opportunities that education provides.
Randi Bandy, Assistant Principal for Game Development Design School, Burleson ISD
Randi Woolsey is in her 7th school year as an educator with Burleson ISD. Randi has served as the Assistant Principal for Game Development Design School since January 2020. Randi entered into a career in the criminal justice field for four and a half years after receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in General Studies from the University of North Texas in 2011. Randi then began her career in education after being alternatively certified in 2016, working with At-Risk youth, before transitioning to administration. Randi earned her Master of Education degree in Educational Leadership from the University of North Texas in 2019. Randi prides herself on bringing innovative ideas to the educational setting that will develop students to become the future productive members of our society.
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| Is This a Test: Social Learning at its Best |
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1 LU
Last year, we explored the benefits of designing educational facilities to meet the needs of all learners with the understanding that diversification is imperative to designing inclusive environments. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic flipped education on its side. Although challenging, this abrupt pivot to remote instruction also uncovered opportunities for a reimagination of how students learn. The pandemic highlighted the notion that educational spaces must be safe physically and emotionally and amplified the importance of the physical spaces. The physical classroom, now the center of educational attention, needed to be re-imagined, once again. Flexible spaces, integrated technology, outdoor learning elements in garden classrooms have changed the educational landscape for years and continue to evolve. Children not only desire to actively participate in their learning, research shows active learning not only improves achievement but is essential to innovative thinking. Advances in enhanced technology through virtual stimulation have contributed to Gifted and Talented and STEAM education approaches. Join us as we check in with our panelists to discuss how these advances have contributed to increased collaboration and greater personalized learning.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss shift to full-time online learning and how lessons learned will help shape the future of the classroom.
- Explore research and design concepts of multi-functional learning spaces that will benefit blended learning and address evolving technology.
- Explore STEAM learning trends.
- Discuss the positive impacts of the digital transformation in education.
Speakers:
Anne Hildenbrand, AIA, ALEP, Associate Principal, BRW Architects
Anne is the daughter of two collegiate chemists and granddaughter of an artist. She embodies the vision for both right and left-brain thinkers. As Associate Principal for BRW Architects, she leads project teams fostering client relationships on many of the education studio’s most complex projects. Actively involved in the Association for Learning Environments for over a decade, Anne has been designing educational facilities for most of her career and believes that education leads to empowerment and the physical space in which children learn is equally as important as what they are learning. Anne resides in Dallas, Texas.
Ashley Jones, S.T.E.A.M. Instructional & Design Coach, Highland Park ISD
Ashley has big ideas. As the Elementary S.T.E.A.M. Instructional Coach in Highland Park ISD, Ashley has built her classroom around relationships, inquiry, and creation, and is a champion of cultivating children’s strengths. She started her teaching career in 2007 as A Physical Education Assistant and Substitute teacher. In recent years, she has earned numerous accolades and prestigious awards including HEB Excellence in Education State Finalist, Richardson ISD’s 2018 Elementary Teacher of the Year and Lake Highlands Most Innovative Teacher. Ashley has been instrumental in the planning and development of the S.T.E.A.M. Team for HP ISD.
Jasmine Patel, Advanced Learning Specialist – Central Support, Richardson ISD
I have been an educator for 20 years. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, a Master's in Curriculum & Instruction, endorsements in Gifted & Talented Education and Early Childhood Education, and I'm a certified Results Coach, Sports Psychology Coach, and Fitness Nutrition Coach. My current role as an Advanced Academics Central Support Specialist requires that I support and train teachers with professional development and coaching, analyze data to determine instructional programming and design, and communicate clearly in all formats with professionals and district stakeholders. I also coach private clients in their wellness and fitness goals as a founding partner in TheProBodyLab through Peak Possibilities and in collaboration with Corpofort Fitness & Macrofort Nutrition.
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| Discovering Partnerships |
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1 LU
This presentation will showcase the complex trajectory leading toward the successful opening of the Tulsa Public School’s STEM Center within the Discovery Lab Museum in Tulsa, OK. Creative partnerships are often critical to create successful and long-term solutions for our community’s most needed commodity, public school children. We will showcase how the design team spearheaded the unique collaboration between the Museum and the district bringing together two clients to accomplish their independent vision and missions in a symbiotic facility, amid other challenges of designing within a highly intricate public-private park and during a pandemic. While engaged in designing the Discovery Lab, a highly anticipated new children’s museum at the Gathering Place, our firm was also assisting Tulsa Public Schools with separate design concepts with partnerships for their STEM Center. This session will explore the goals and objectives of each, how they found each other, and their plans for how to make the long-term partnership successful both in terms of finances, as well as with their unique programming.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn about integrating and managing a project within a complex partnership of public, private and consulting partners to create an integrated project team.
- Gain understanding of non-profit organizational structures, specifically the Discovery Lab and how they operate and create alternate income streams to supplement their programming.
- Understand the process of site selection related to a major public project.
- Hear about how focusing on long term community impact and client relationship can significantly outweigh the implications of merging two distinct projects into one.
Speakers:
Sarah Gould, AIA, A4LE, Owner, KKT Architects
Sarah is the President and CEO of KKT Architects. Education and community are her passions, and she works closely with most school districts in the region. Sarah is Past-President of Oklahoma A4LE and serves on the board of the Foundation for Tulsa Schools. She earned her Master of Architecture from the University of Texas, Austin and her Master of Architectural Urban Studies from the University of Oklahoma, Tulsa.
Ray Vandiver, Ph.D, Executive Director/CEO, Discovery Lab
Dr. Ray Vandiver is the executive director of the Tulsa Children’s Museum (TCM). Ray has been a leader in informal education and interactive exhibit design for over 25 years. Millions of people, all over the world, have enjoyed the exhibits developed by Ray over his career. Ray holds his doctorate in experimental atomic and molecular physics. His areas of academic interests are optics, lasers, gas discharges, and quantum mechanics. Ray is also an artist and musician.
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| Thursday, March 31, 2022 | 10:45 – 11:45 AM |
| The Acorn to the Mighty Oak: How Small Investments Can Have the Greatest Impact on Students’ Futures |
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1 LU
How can you make the most significant impact on young people’s lives even with a small investment? In this session, Angela Whitaker-Williams, Principal Architect at Perkins&Will Austin Studio, will explore how lean budgets can invigorate creativity. Cybersecurity is the fastest growing need in the workforce, and currently, there are not enough new workers entering the field. This session will explore Northeast Early College High School Security and Technology Lab and its partnership with Dell Computers and Formula One to create a cybersecurity lab for an early college high school in Austin, Texas. Perkins&Will and Dell Computers worked in tandem with the school’s curriculum, to give students access to a career in cybersecurity and transform the local community. It bridges the gap between the need for cybersecurity jobs and low-income students who would not have regular access to the education needed for these jobs. Attendees will learn how design and technology together can greatly improve students’ futures and the value that comes with investing in communities.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn how design and technology can bridge students’ interests and career exploration.
- Understand how integrating design and technology can impact their local communities.
- Understand how small investments in technology and design can lead to large changes that positively impact a student’s future.
- Comprehend how to envision and plan programs and facilities that support students and their future in technology.
Speakers:
Angela Whitaker-Williams, AIA, LEED AP, Principle, Perkins&Will
Angela leads the education practice of Perkins&Will in Austin. Angela believes great design is about people, relationships, context, and experience. She enjoys learning about her clients’ drivers and implementing a flexible, timeless design framework that maximizes the programmatic opportunities, positively impacts the community, and creates amazing learning spaces.
Snow White, Senior K12 Education Strategist, Dell Computers
Snow is an educational thought leader and social media influencer with expertise around Professional Learning and Next Generation Digital Classrooms. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Applied Learning & Development and a K-8 Teaching Certificate with a specialization in Speech Communications. From teaching to writing curriculum, to consulting with schools across the globe, Snow has dedicated the last 20 years to accelerating student-led personalized learning.
Kevin Garcia, PHD, Assistant Principal, Northeast High School, Austin ISD
Kevin is the Assistant Principal at Northeast Early College High School in Austin ISD. He has degrees from the University of Texas in Business Administration, and both a Masters and Doctorate of Education. He has a strong focus on STEM starting his career as a math teacher, and developing into a curricula leader and assistant principal. He has impacted countless students with his creative approach and connections to industry partnerships.
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| The Sustainable Table: Katy ISD’s New Facility to Support Food, Fur and Feathers |
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1 LU
This session will detail the past, present, and future aspects of the design process to realize a state-of-the-art agriculture science facility that includes a rodeo arena, pond, pavilion, show arena, and a project center. Use of the newly designed facility will support increasing expectations for student preferences, transformation of programs, and align graduation options in Texas for the Business & Industry endorsement, with support for the Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources Career Cluster. This project involves discovering the importance of industry emulated instructional areas to support agricultural sciences. The goal of the session is to examine how instruction should drive the design process resulting in a specialized learning environment for students whose high school connection is agriculture. Because agriculture is so important to our society, students experience the sustainable practice of Farm to Table while showing the necessary skills to adequately raise livestock surrounded by learning areas to promote quality crops as well as horticulture and aquaculture. Evidence of design will be revealed including a rodeo arena, pond, pavilion, show arena, and a project center that support instructional as well as showmanship needs.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the integration of curricula while aligning with sustainability.
- Understand the importance of an instructional driven design for an ag science facility.
- Connect concepts that support Farm to Market.
- Understand how appropriate learning spaces and ample outdoor areas serve as a catalyst for the future of learning experiences and transformation of programs.
Speakers:
Lisa Kassman, Executive Director of Facilities and Planning, Katy ISD
Lisa has been with Katy ISD since 2000 in the role of Construction Project Manager. She has not only worked on construction projects at 36 of our 80 facilities, but has also been the main coordinator and Bond presenter of the Long Range Facilities Plans for 2006, 2010, and 2014. Her responsibilities as Executive Director of Facilities, Planning and Construction include facility design, construction, planning, property acquisition, and energy management.
Sarah Martin, Ph.D., Director of Career and Technical Education, Katy ISD
Dr. Sarah J. Martin has been involved in Career and Technical Education (CTE) for 35 years. Dr. Martin moved into CTE administration in 1998 working as a Career Connections Specialist for the Maryland State Department of Education. Serving as a liaison between the State Department and the local education agencies, she provided guidance and support to the CTE directors across the state; specializing in Perkins legislation and state categorical funding.
Brad Ewing, Senior Associate, Project Designer, VLK Architects
Brad joined VLK in 2008 and has become a respected Senior Designer within the firm. With notable client projects such as Houston ISD's Energy Institute and the design of award-winning prototype elementary schools within Katy ISD and Brazosport ISD, Ewing's professionalism and insightful approach to providing innovative designs that impact education is impressive. Brad is a strong leader for VLK largely because of his dedication to mentorship.
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| Trauma Informed Design: Designing Education Facilities for Families Experiencing Homelessness |
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1 LU/HSW
We will focus on the issues surrounding the education of families experiencing homelessness. With 6000 homeless families in Oklahoma City and 1.5 million nationwide, our discussion will focus on the components of trauma informed design and how those were used to design a new elementary school for homeless children. Trauma-informed design integrates the principles of trauma-informed care into the buildings design with the goal of creating education spaces that promote safety, well-being and healing.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe and understand the 6 principles of trauma informed design: TSafety, Trustworthiness & Transparency, Peer Support, Collaboration, Empowerment & Choice, and Cultural Issues.
- Place into practice education design principles that relate to the needs of children and families experiencing homelessness.
- Discover the skills needed to design a school for children experiencing homelessness and define the key spaces and design concepts needed to create a facility where they will thrive and grow.
- Identify the principles of overseeing and managing a facility that educates children experiencing homelessness with the goal of creating a facility concept that serves as a national model for future facility designs.
Speakers:
Gary Armbruster, Principal Architect/Partner, MA+ Architecture
Gary Armbruster is a Principal Architect/Partner for MA+ Architecture in Oklahoma City. Gary is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma and holds a Certificate in Educational Facility Planning. Gary is the Education Studio Director and is responsible for programming/design for all education projects. An Accredited Learning Environment Planner through the Association for Learning Environments, he is one of only four ALEPs in Oklahoma. He speaks nationally on education design related issues and topics.
Margaret Creighton, Executive Vice President, Positive Tomorrows Elementary
Margaret Creighton is the Executive Vice President at Positive Tomorrows, Oklahoma’s only elementary school specifically serving children and families experiencing homelessness. She received her B.S. in Dance Management and MBA from Oklahoma City University. Margaret was hired as Development Director at Positive Tomorrows in 2013. Margaret was named one of the Journal Record’s Achievers under 40, OKC Gazette’s 40 under 40 and completed Leadership Oklahoma City’s Signature program in class 36.
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| Bringing Everyone Under One Roof – The Arlington ISD Enterprise Centre |
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1 LU
When Arlington ISD decided to consolidate their scattered district administration departments into a single facility, they found a unique opportunity to reinvent a five-story office building in the middle of town. The building interior was completely demolished to allow for an open-concept design which facilitates innovation between departments and minimizes isolated offices. The designers met the needs of each department without losing the overall vision of unity and collaboration set forth by the administration. The health and wellbeing of all employees and the community is elevated by the design quality, with careful attention to bring natural light deep in the building. Attendees will discover opportunities that arise when centralizing administration in a large district, requiring well planned change-management and workplace strategies, as well as practical challenges with construction and phasing within a complex existing facility.
Learning Objectives:
- Discover opportunities that arise when centralizing administration in a large district.
- Learn change-management and workplace strategy concepts and implementation.
- Gain strategies to respond to challenges with construction and phasing within a complex existing facility.
- Learn how to respond strategically to continued input and requested changes during design and construction, requiring agility and design flexibility.
Speakers:
Kelly Horn, Assistant Superintendent of Facility Services, Arlington ISD
Kelly has decades of experience in working with educators to collaborate with each other and students in innovate facilities. He has a deep knowledge in all elements of construction, budget and bond planning.
Beverly Fornof, Senior Associate, Corgan
Beverly is a Senior Associate at Corgan with over a decade of experience developing innovative learning environments that prioritize student engagement. She has completed over 150 projects, with project budgets from $50,000 to $86,000,000. Beverly has a deep understanding of current technologies, their integration requirements and the benefits they provide for the development of learners.
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| Thursday, March 31, 2022 | 1:30 – 2:30 PM |
| School Buildings Playing an Important Role in Students’ Health and Physical and Mental Well-being |
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1 LU/HSW
In the recent past, students and teachers have been experiencing extreme mental stress due to the constant increase in school violence and with constant reminders of possible threats during school safety drills. In the last two years COVID 19 has added yet another dimension to the students’ mental and physical stress. This pandemic has shaken their sense of normalcy in many ways and has lasted longer than predicted. At times like these, when both their physical and mental wellbeing is being threatened in many ways, it is more important than ever that we create environments that do not further lead to stress but on the other hand help improve their health and wellbeing. In this session we will share an example project which was a collaborative effort between the school district, engineers, and architects with a goal to create a healthy and efficient building. We will discuss (with examples) ways by which school buildings can be designed to provide healthier environments, how buildings can incorporate natural elements like Biophilic Design and how learning can be taken outdoors as means to reduce stress and enhance mental wellbeing. Reduced stress levels are known to enhance immunity, which is more important than ever in this current situation and any future threats that our school community might be in store for.
Learning Objectives:
- See an example project that went through an integrated process where school district professionals, architects and engineers came together with a goal to create a healthy and efficient building.
- Learn various strategies including specifying healthy materials, integrating HVAC technologies, clear wayfinding techniques by which buildings can help with student and teacher physical health and wellbeing.
- Ssee examples of how nature (Biophilic Design concepts) can be incorporated in buildings as a way to reduce stress.
- Learn how building design can help take learning outdoors and make learning active, further helping with student engagement, cognitive learning, and health.
Speakers:
Shivani Langer, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, Principal, Senior Project Architect, Regional Sustainability Leader, Stantec Architecture
Shivani is a is a LEED and WELL Accredited Senior Project Architect/Project Manager and Regional Sustainability Leader with over 20 years of experience including 14 years of experience in Educational facility design. Since her post graduate degree in Sustainable Design in 2003, she has been promoting high performance and sustainability goals in all projects. She has worked with many school districts and higher education clients throughout Texas on a variety of project types and sizes.
Craig Wilson, Director of Digital Learning, Temple ISD
Craig began his career as a fourth grade teacher over 20 years ago in Houston. Throughout his journey, he has served Texas and Michigan as a teacher, Instructional Technology Specialist, Elementary Curriculum Coordinator, and most recently as a principal for 12 years. He has a bachelor's degree from the University of Texas at Austin, a Master's in Education Administration from the University of Houston, and a Superintendent Certificate from Texas A&M University Central Texas.
Zachary Schneider, PE, LEED AP, LC, CxA Partner, CMTA, Inc.
Mr. Schneider joined CMTA in August of 2002 and helped start CMTA’s Houston office in 2009. He has served as the lead electrical engineer for many high performing schools in Kentucky and Texas. He has also served as the project manager on numerous ENERGY STAR and LEED projects. Utilizing his LC certification, Mr. Schneider has become an expert in daylight harvesting, lighting controls and low power density lighting design.
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| The Aftermath of Hurricane Harvey |
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1 LU/HSW
Following Hurricane Harvey, Houston ISD made the difficult choice to raze four elementary schools, rebuild on the existing sites, and restore these schools to the impacted communities before FEMA funding was readily available. Even on a fast-track, the schools would be displaced for about two years. Designing structures as the new regulations were being drafted was a challenge. The new, more stringent site planning regulations require new buildings to be 2' above natural grade. Additionally, conveyance, as well as mitigation and retention, must be factored into design decisions—meaning new schools must be built above ground and allow watershed to run under the schools in the natural direction of flow. As a result, the four new schools are as high as 7' above ground to allow for water flow under the buildings.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand new watershed and flood prevention requirements.
- Explain how utilizing FEMA impacted the projects.
- Outline pros and cons of what would be repeated and what would be done differently next time around.
- Understand impact of hurricanes on school districts.
Speakers:
Michelle Dudley, Managing Principal, Pfluger Architects
Daniel Bankhead, AIA, NOMA, General Manager, Facilities Design, Houston ISD
Dan Bankhead is a dedicated design professional with a distinguished 41-year career of comprehensive professional practice in executive architectural management and construction administration of retail/commercial projects ranging in size from $200,000 to $84 million. Since 2010, he has served as the General Manager of Facilities Design in Construction Services for the Houston Independent School District. He successfully gave leadership to multiple roles for the District’s $2.1 billion 2012 Facilities Capital Improvement (Bond) Program, which produced one of the largest portfolios of USGBC LEED-certified schools in the country, and a considerable number of award-wining academic facilities for the district. His professional experience is supplemented by over 17 years of higher education teaching a variety of courses at Prairie View A&M University.
Tina Bender, Construction Project Manager, Houston ISD
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| Everyone Wants to be an Architect! |
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1 LU
Community engagement is at the heart of every successful school project. Engaging with a range of stakeholders from students to parents, teachers to administrators, and business owners to public officials can help bring a diverse set of perspectives to a project. This presentation will track the yearlong community engagement process Bixby Public Schools and KKT Architects went through as they collaborated on the design of the district’s new high school. The team went through a comprehensive process to understand the challenges left behind from previous facility planning decisions, assess the current state of the high school’s pedagogy and community’s desires, and to develop a comprehensive road map for the district’s future that addressed the district’s rapid growth and will help shift the teaching paradigm. We will explore a variety of tools and methods that were used to ensure everyone had the opportunity to add their voice and ideas, while also discussing how the engagement process was used by the design team to message the project and steer the community toward a forward-looking consensus.
Learning Objectives:
- Develop a process to listen to and garner community feedback while also simultaneously being proactive in developing a message for the project.
- Be equipped with a variety of tools and methods that can be used to gather community feedback and develop metrics by which design decisions can be weighed and understood.
- Learn how to be equitable while engaging a broad spectrum of diverse community members and organizations.
- Understand how to codify conversational or written feedback in order to identify consistent themes and develop quantifiable metrics.
Speakers:
Sarah Gould, AIA, A4LE, Owner, KKT Architects
Sarah is the President and CEO of KKT Architects. Education and community are her passions, and she works closely with most school districts in the region. Sarah is Past-President of Oklahoma A4LE and serves on the board of the Foundation for Tulsa Schools. She earned her Master of Architecture from the University of Texas, Austin and her Master of Architectural Urban Studies from the University of Oklahoma, Tulsa.
Francis Wilmore, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Director of Design, KKT Architects
As Director of Design at KKT Architects, Francis pairs theoretical visioning charrettes with client-focused project design to develop a culture of forward-thinking solutions within the office. His passion for pushing boundaries and finding synergetic relationships within constraints leads to the design of non-traditional education spaces that create new opportunities for teaching and learning. He has been honored with numerous awards for his design work and service within the profession.
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| Louisiana Chapter / Steelcase – Special Needs Learning Lab Project |
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1 LU/HSW
In the summer of 2021 the Louisiana Chapter of A4LE teamed up with Steelcase Learning to refurbish a single classroom for an under-privileged, inner city school. In addition to providing a revamp to lighting and acoustics, and working and designing with instructional staff, this also involved providing a new compliment of classroom furniture. Steelcase Learning's mission is to help schools, colleges and universities to create the most effective, rewarding and inspiring learning environments. The Active Learning Center Grant is one way Steelcase invests in the future of teaching and learning. The ALC grant furnishes a new classroom and provides support services to educational institutions interested in transformation. Throughout this program, Steelcase explores the impact of the physical environment on student success. Steelcase is using a variety of tools to gather data and study the perceptions of students and instructors relative to a number of factors that suggest enhanced engagement and student success. Raphael Academy in New Orleans, Louisiana is a 2021 recipient of the Active Learning Center Grant. Rapheal Academy is a state-licensed school for 1st through 12th grade students with developmental disabilities. Color palette, zoning and specialized product selection were a few of the elements that impacted the planning and design of the identified classroom where students are tasked with developing independent life skills and appropriate social interactions. We are currently studying the following overarching questions: How does the built environment support the social and emotional skill development and wellbeing of students day-to-day? What zones and design principles best support and enhance the development of life skills and influence positive engagements for special needs students? How does the built environment support the instructor in facilitating and managing personalized learning experiences? The overall questions seek to detect how the built environment impacts cognitive, behavioral, emotional and academic engagement. Questions also seek to gauge behaviors and attitudes linked with student success factors, including mindset, sense of belonging, creativity, collaboration, critical thinking and communication. Project development, classroom design and integration strategies will be shared.
Learning Objectives:
- Awareness of Steelcase Active Learning Center Grant.
- Introduction to issues regarding furniture product selection for Special Needs Classrooms.
- Exposure to methodologies for post-occupancy data collection on furniture's impact on student and instructor perceptions.
- Discussion on gauging student success factors over the first year after installation.
Speakers:
Amy Bass, South Central Regional Education Manager, SouthCentral Steelcase
Amy has been with Steelcase for more than two years and serves as a Regional Education Manager where she supports clients in Mississippi, Louisiana and Arkansas. As a former instructor at Mississippi State University, Amy brings a wealth of educational knowledge and experience to her role where she consults with and supports educational clients as they redesign learning environments. She has over 15 years of experience in the design of workplace ecosystems, collaborative technology integration, and active learning classrooms.
Darrell Stanley, Consultant, Education K-12, Steelcase
Darrell is the Regional Education Team leader for the South Central Region of Steelcase. He has spent over 30 years in educational leadership roles within the industry and has been with Steelcase for 12 years where he has worked with both K12 and higher education institutions in the designing and planning of spaces that are inspiring and promote student engagement and success.
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| Thursday, March 31, 2022 | 2:45 – 3:45 PM |
| Charting the Course to Carbon Neutral |
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1 LU/HSW
In the past, school buildings were designed to allow for ventilation, natural daylight, and passive heating. School buildings were located in communities to allow students to walk to class. In the modern era, school buildings have been sealed up and closed off from the outside world. Modern designers go out of their way to introduce fresh air and natural daylight. The modernization of schools with central heating and cooling systems resulted in a tremendous operating expense, and the resultant demand for energy has a significant environmental impact. In the future, buildings will be designed to operate more in concert with the local environment, rather than fighting against it. A global movement toward carbon neutral building design, construction, and operations is gaining momentum. In the future, building codes will likely require net zero energy, zero carbon, and zero waste. How will this impact the operation of your school facilities. What will it cost? Will you be prepared? This discussion will raise awareness of current trends and provide a call for planning to make school facilities operations future-ready.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn the definition of carbon neutral, net zero energy, and net zero ready.
- Introduced to current building design trends intended to mitigate climate change.
- Learn of specific design tools and strategies for achieving net zero or net zero ready school facilities.
- Understand the potential costs and benefits of net zero operations.
Speakers:
Brian Uhlrich, DBR Engineering
Brian Uhlrich, P.E., is a champion of sustainability at DBR. Brian is an architectural engineer with a passion for data-driven, integrated design of buildings and environmental preservation. He has been designing MEP systems for Texas schools for over 25 years, with an eye for reducing operating expenses. Brian served for the past 6 years as a founding board member of USGBC Texas. He lives in San Antonio with his wife and four children.
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| The Intersectionality of Innovation on Design |
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1 LU
The growing popularity of Charter, Private and for-profit education entities has created a market of competition for legacy K-12 public institutions of learning. Research has shown students learn through different mediums and a shift in mindset away from traditional curricula and facilities is required in order to provide choices for young scholars and different pathways to foster student achievement. Dallas Independent School District currently offers 45 Transformation and Innovation Schools. Transformation schools are brand-new schools with specialized academic programming, like Magnet Schools, but without academic entry requirements. Innovation Schools are neighborhood campuses redesigned around innovative anchor models such as Performing and Visual Arts, Montessori, Personalized Learning or STEM. This session will explore schools of transformation and innovation, dissecting the models, curricula, and implementation while addressing the unique facility needs offered and required for the success of these programs.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the learning models offered through schools of transformation and innovation and the opportunities these curricula offer in evolving antiquated building programs and facilities into 21st century learning environments.
- Plan for equitable, agile and adaptable learning environments that can be easily modified for the evolution of curriculum and growth in schools of transformation and innovation.
- Explore options to transform half century old facilities by removing physical facility constraints and creating opportunities to provide expanded curriculum offerings.
- Verify the effectiveness of innovative and transformative learning curriculums and environments through student achievement and program interest.
Speakers:
Derwin Broughton, AIA, NCARB, Principal, KAI Enterprises
Derwin is a Principal for KAI and has committed over twenty years of service to working with public sector clients with a specialization in education and government. He was recognized by the AIA and a recipient of the Young Architects Award. Derwin was named “20 Under 40” by Engineering News and Report and celebrated by the Dallas Business Journal as one of “20 Under 40” of professionals making a difference in Dallas.
Michele Broughton, Ed.D. Executive Director of Transformation and Innovation, Dallas Independent School District
Michele is the Executive Director of Transformation and Innovation Schools in the Dallas Independent School District. Dr. Broughton has nearly twenty years of experience in education and has served in the roles of Teacher, Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal and Principal. Her work is now centered in hiring and managing school leaders who develop startup transformation schools. Broughton received formal training at Clemson University (B.A.), Texas Woman's University (M. Ed), and Southern Methodist University (Ed.D).
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| What is an Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP) and How Do I Become One? |
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1 LU
The Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP) is the professional designation of the Association and signifies excellence in the industry. It is designed to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance, and identify those in the educational environment industry who demonstrate the core competencies essential to the practice of planning, designing, equipping and maintaining educational environments. The Commission, an independent body that governs the accreditation, creates, sets policy for, and bestows the ALEP. The Commission has identified core competencies which the designation represents and defines an outstanding professional in the industry of planning, designing, equipping, and maintaining learning environments. This session will review the skills necessary for becoming an ALEP and address the 7 core competencies of the designation. Each competency will be defined with examples to demonstrate the skills.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain the designation and its importance to the industry.
- Review the 7 core competencies.
- Demonstrate examples of the skills necessary in each competency.
- Learn the process of becoming an ALEP.
Speakers:
Gary Armbruster, Principal Architect/Partner, MA+ Architecture
Gary Armbruster is a Principal Architect/Partner for MA+ Architecture in Oklahoma City. Gary is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma and holds a Certificate in Educational Facility Planning. Gary is the Education Studio Director and is responsible for programming/design for all education projects. An Accredited Learning Environment Planner through the Association for Learning Environments, he is one of only four ALEPs in Oklahoma. He speaks nationally on education design related issues and topics.
David Henebry, President, DaVinci Planning, PC
Mr. Henebry has over 30 years of experience in creating innovative and responsive solutions for clients. As an Accredited Learning Environment Planner ALEP he has demonstrated a mastery of aligning curriculum with facility planning and visioning with a focus on creating learning environments that are engaging for all learners and staff. Mr. Henebry currently serves on the A4LE ALEP Commission and has been one of the guiding forces for setting a high bar for obtaining the certification.
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| The Enhanced Active Learning Classroom |
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1 LU/HSW
As educators and students are living through COVID-19, now more than ever we are required to pivot to accommodate new methods of learning and embrace technology. The lessons learned will pay off: demands for new ways of learning are here to stay. The need for Active learning is no longer a new way of teaching but rather a way to address the increased need for technology in the classroom. Teachers are learning how to address simultaneous instruction by juggling between virtual and in person students. Engage with us to learn how acoustics, furniture and flexible design address evolving technology and enhance the active learning environment.
Learning Objectives:
- Explore research and design concepts of multi-functional learning spaces that will benefit blended learning and address evolving technology.
- Understand the importance of acoustics and apply acoustic concepts in the classroom.
- Identify numerous furniture concepts that allow for flexible and collaborative learning.
- Understand how technology, AV and creative power distribution can enhance the active learning environment.
Speakers:
Anne Hildenbrand, AIA, ALEP, Associate Principal, BRW Architects
Anne is an Associate Principal at BRW Architects with more than 25 years of experience in leading the planning, programming, and design of educational facilities. With a focus on collaboration and unified leadership, her strong sense of direction ensures that the project vision is carried through all phases of the project. The daughter of two collegiate chemists and granddaughter of an artist, she embodies the vision for both right and left-brain thinkers with a broad range of expertise in quality control, programming, sustainable design, product specification, and cost and code analysis. One of Anne’s greatest strengths is her solution-based approach which contributes to her ability to forge relationships across all stakeholder levels. Currently serving as Past President of the A4LE North Texas Chapter and having recently served on the TASA Facilities Committee for the TEA Facilities Standards, she frequently speaks at education conferences and industry association engagements.
Steve Johnson, AIA, Senior Associate, BRW Architects
Steve has a passion and determination for constant improvement and strives to instill the same drive in the teams he manages. For over 25 years, Steve has brought this same inquisitiveness and tenacity to designing K-12 facilities that meet each individual Owner’s needs. He is an exceptional listener who believes we can ‘hit any target once it has been defined’. He has had the privilege of working with more than 20 different school districts in Texas.
Adam Nemati, P.E., Principal, MEPCE
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| Friday, April 1, 2022 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Early College Partnerships: A Head Start to Success |
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1 LU
In this session, Dallas College will share their passion and journey to give high school students a head start on charting their course through Early College partnerships with North Texas school districts. Dual credit, certifications and associates degrees achieved during high school support students who may not enter college after graduation. Attendees will learn how this program can be replicated in their area.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain the requirements and best practices for starting Early College partnerships in their region.
- Outline capital improvement opportunities to improve Early College programs.
- Compile region specific career needs and tailor offerings to them.
- Share passionately regarding the impact district partnerships can have on student engagement and developmental success.
Speakers:
Sangeetha Karthik, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, NCIDQ, Associate Principal, Corgan
Sangeetha has 20 years of experience in education architecture and is a Associate Principal within Corgan. As a thought-leader on programming and visioning strategy, Sangeetha has done extensive research on K-12 and higher education partnerships. She has worked with many education clients throughout Texas to define and align career-based curriculum to meet the goals and needs of the client. She excels in creating spaces foster engaged, self-directed learners that are aptly prepared for their future.
Dr. Anna Mays, Vice Provost of Educational Partnerships, Dallas College
Dr. Mays is a visionary for developing partnerships that allow young people to accelerate their educational journey and solidify their opportunities for future success. She previously served as Associate Vice Chancellor for Educational Policy for the district.
Tiffany Kirksey, Dean of K-12 Partnerships, Dallas College
Tiffany ensures a successful coordination between high school and college programs and directors, providing a seamless alignment for maximum student opportunities. Ms. Kirksey previously served as Dean of Student Support Services at Dallas College.
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| Wayfinders: Charting Your Course Through Project Budget Development – From Programming, Through Closeout |
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1 LU
Budget development isn’t that the finance department’s responsibility! We are the design team. In the current era of cost and materiality uncertainty, budget development is a must. When the owner asks for a scope to budget for a project in programming, how can you deliver on such a request? Attend this very insightful and hands-on workshop. The team will share their journey and process of developing and interactive tool to achieve a better process and outcomes for budget development throughout the life of a project. From one district’s request to achieve a balance and consistency of scope to budget documentation and project development, this session will allow the audience to experience firsthand how to create, setup, manipulate, and manage their project’s ongoing changing budget. We aren’t just talking numbers! The tool is designed to be interactive and malleable based on the needs of the owner and the project.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn how to identify a scope to budget template
- Learn how to develop and present project elements, cost factors, contingencies, and variances to manage and stay on track
- Lean how to engage and challenge the owner to achieve best results through the interactive budget tool
- Attendees will leave the session with a toolkit of opportunities and a baseline for developing a working project budget develop resource.
Speakers:
Julie Williams, A4LE Fellow, REFP Director, Facilities Planning, San Antonio ISD
Honored to have served as Chair of A4LE (2019-2020) Julie Williams’ dedication to educational facilities planning spans nearly 32 years and includes a portfolio of projects that represent the spectrum of PK-12 and higher educational facilities for both public and private institutions. She received the Planner of the Year award (Southwest Region) and completed 11 years on the A4LE international board. Currently, Julie is the Facilities Planning Director for SAISD. She leads the efforts of the planning department team which is focused on the current Bond 2020 $1.3 billion facilities upgrade program. Julie was one of the nominees for the 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award. Her passion and mission are serving others. Julie often refers to her role as missionary work which is the achievement of a lifetime!
Casey Annunzio, Director of San Antonio Studio, Huckabee
Casey leads Huckabee’s San Antonio office, bringing more than two decades of comprehensive experience to the Huckabee team. Casey’s diverse portfolio includes complex renovations and notable new buildings for school districts, university systems, municipalities, churches and retail groups. In her role at Huckabee, Casey is committed to creating environments that are individualized, flexible and responsive and that evolve with educational needs. She makes a sincere and continuous effort to cultivate positive, lasting relationships with every client, large and small.
Easy Foster, RTSBA, AIC, CPC, LEED AP, Admin Dir of Planning/Construction, Conroe ISD
Easy graduated from Texas A&M University in the top ten of his class with a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Science. He passed the Associate Constructor and Certified Professional Constructor examinations administered by the American Institute of Constructors. Easy also earned his LEEP AP certification. Easy joined the construction industry in 1998 to gain understanding and experience planning, leading, and building things from the ground up. As the Director of Planning and Construction, he has successfully completed over $1 Billion in construction projects throughout Texas, ranging from schools, public and private, office buildings, warehouses, hospitality venues, medical projects and residential projects. His experience with complex projects and high-profile owners has given me a unique perspective on the construction industry. Easy Foster has created a culture of learning and giving within the Conroe ISD community.
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| Analytics and Academics: How Data is Driving Solutions to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Learning Environment |
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1 LU
Difficult and challenging questions often shape the dynamics that impact our public schools. Societal and cultural change often dictate how these questions are formed and then asked. This has never been truer than with our most recent history. Consequently, ISD’s have been called upon to fulfill their charge at a pace and thoughtfulness that does not rest with the general public. Teaching and learning, enrollment loss, resource allocation, public trust, student/teacher morale are only a few areas buckling under the pressure of current events. The demand for unique and comprehensive solutions for ISDs is now more than ever a critical need. “Big data” is simply large and complex unique data sets that, once analyzed, reveal patterns, trends, and associations. This presentation will consider how the power inherent in this data can be utilized as both a response to, and tool for a diversity, equity, and inclusion conversation. We will focus on recent examples of how “big data” can be used to address, virtual learning, pinpointing poverty density, facility and educational needs assessing, building renewal, statewide student performance and facility comparisons, square footage per student allocations, social media, and student safety. It will consider the question of how existing large data sources can be mined to equip ISD’s with the information they need to make accurate decisions based on efficient and exhaustive “research”.
Learning Objectives:
- Understanding the fundamentals of “big data” and its potential.
- The connection between data sources, data analysis and ISD needs, and how these influence diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- How this connection can influence conversations on diversity, equity and inclusion for ISDs.
- Identify recent examples and outcomes of successful utilization of “big data”.
Speakers:
David Finley, EdD, AIA, ALEP, Principal, K-12 Director, Parkhill
Dr. David Finley is a Principal and Parkhill’s Director of K-12 Education. With over 30 years of service primarily dedicated to Texas’ public schools, David brings a unique perspective and understanding of educational systems to the Parkhill team. His experience includes cabinet positions in Ector County ISD and Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD, where he supervised all district operations. David has initiated and managed a comprehensive portfolio of master plans, assessments, bond referendums, and construction projects.
Michael Howard, AIA, ASLA, AICP, Principal, Planning and Interiors Director, Parkhill
Michael is a Principal who leads Parkhill’s Planning and Interiors Practice. Michael also serves as a Planning Team Leader and Location Leader for Parkhill’s Frisco Office. He is registered as an Architect and Landscape Architect in Texas and is certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners. His work gives clients a deeper understanding of potential outcomes during master planning by leveraging analytics to create a data-driven foundation for decision making.
Kellie Wilks, EdD, Chief Technology Officer, Ector County ISD
Dr. Wilks is Chief Technology Officer at Ector County ISD. As a teacher, campus lead, and district administrator, Kellie has led the charge of engaging students and teachers through an integrated technology approach. Dr. Wilks professional practice is grounded in the utilization of technology as a complimentary tool to teaching and learning and the momentum this dynamic creates to prepare students for an ever-changing society.
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| The Evolution of Learning Spaces: Acknowledging the Past While Looking to the Future |
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1 LU
Preservation projects allow architects and designers to protect irreplaceable and historical elements of a building while modifying the space and bringing it up to modern safety standards. This session will explore North Dallas High School as a case study to discuss how the revitalized campus helps promote student growth and elevates learning environments by providing fundamental revisions of traditional methods of instruction from teachers directed to student choice and project-based learning. The session will analyze the design of the building and how it will create a connection from existing historical architecture to the new addition—acknowledging the past and looking to the future. The session will also demonstrate how the building represents perseverance through time, continually seeking to change while maintaining a strong identity.
Learning Objectives:
- Walk away with an understanding of creating learning environments that honor the past and aim for the future.
- Understand ways to offer students and staff increasing safety and security measures while bringing the facility in line with current district standards.
- Gain insight into public schools' fundamental revisions of traditional methods of instruction and how this relates to renovated building spaces.
- Learn planning concepts that ensure flexibility for the evolving needs of students.
Speakers:
Barbara Rystrom, Senior Project Manager, Perkins&Will
Based in the Dallas studio of Perkins&Will, Barbara is a Senior Project Architect working to create learning environments that are safe, future-ready and secure. Her passion for design coupled with her innovative thinking produce spaces that inspire and support education while promoting physical, emotional and academic safety.
Katherine Eska, Principal, Campus Leadership Team, North Dallas High School
Principal Eska aims to impact serving students where the opportunity gap is most salient. Interests in teacher preparation, developing teachings, school leadership, and quantitative data analysis. Her specialties are in leading change, innovative teaching strategies, positive behavior management, high school academy options, and strategic problem-solving.
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| Friday, April 1, 2022 | 2:15 – 3:15 PM |
| How Do You Know What You Don't Know? Wayfinding Through the Labyrinth of Educational Facilities Planning, Design & Construction |
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1 LU
The purpose and idea for this session is to provide the groundwork and beginning discussions of a "How To" series. Beginning with the nuts and bolts related to project management from both the owner and consultants’ perspectives. Project management is the nucleus of all activities within the world of facilities related work. We have programs and projects. So, what is needed to setup, establish, run, and closeout a project? How do you know what you need if you haven't done it before? This session provides the clarity and wayfinding to the basics of what you need to know, why it is important, when to apply the information, and how all of the information is applied. The session is intended to be a guided hands-on and interactive session. The audience and the facilitators develop the outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn essential elements of what is needed to run any type of project (project management).
- Learners will engage with one another to test and develop project outcomes.
- Learners will walk away with clarity related to the why, how, when, and what of developing protocols, templates, and processes.
- The learners will gain valuable insight related to the big picture of planning, design, and construction projects.
Speakers:
Julie Williams, A4LE Fellow, REFP Director, Facilities Planning, San Antonio ISD
Honored to have served as Chair of A4LE (2019-2020) Julie Williams’ dedication to educational facilities planning spans nearly 32 years and includes a portfolio of projects that represent the spectrum of PK-12 and higher educational facilities for both public and private institutions. She received the Planner of the Year award (Southwest Region) and completed 11 years on the A4LE international board. Currently, Julie is the Facilities Planning Director for SAISD. She leads the efforts of the planning department team which is focused on the current Bond 2020 $1.3 billion facilities upgrade program. Julie was one of the nominees for the 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award. Her passion and mission are serving others. Julie often refers to her role as missionary work which is the achievement of a lifetime!
Gloria Barrera, REFP, LEED AP, Vice President / Texas Area Manager, Vanir Construction Management
Gloria Barrera has led the design and construction for more than 6 million square feet of new construction and renovation projects. With 25 years of experience, she has spent a significant portion of her career specializing in K-12 facilities, but is also skilled in the criminal justice and healthcare market segments. As a principal-in-charge and program director, Gloria has overseen a number of large, public bond construction programs across the United States. She has been involved in the Council of Educational Facility Planners International (CEFPI) for years serving as the Gulf Coast Chapter President and Southern Region President. She was part of the CEFPI/Associated General Contractors Houston Task Force to develop best practices for the Competitive Sealed Proposal delivery method. She also participated as a review committee member for CEFPI’s Creating Connections—Guide to Educational Facility Planning.
Irene Nigalioni, AIA, ALEP, LEED AP BD+C, President, IN2Architecture
IN2 was founded by Irene Nigaglioni, AIA, ALEP, LEED AP BD+C, after a 24+ year career dedicated to the design and planning of learning environments. Irene's leadership skills and accomplishments surpass most. Serving as the global chair of A4LE, past Southern Region President, the founding member for A4LE's Advanced Academy, are just a few of the long list of her continuing achievements. She offers varied experience in educational and institutional facilities. Her experience in the design of academic facilities ranges from renovation to new construction. As President of IN2 Architecture, Irene is involved in all aspects of a project, including visioning, programming, master planning, schematic design, design development, construction documents and contract administration. Irene keeps up with the latest instructional & curriculum trends in school design, ensuring her client’s buildings are designed with student success in mind.
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| A Tale of Two Schools: One District’s Story of Growth and the Start of a Second High School |
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1 LU/HSW
Communities are built around the common ground and history developed through the shared experience of one local high school. But, when population growth starts to force the issue of a second high school, what is the impact on these communities? Join us for the story of one central Texas school district’s journey and the decisions that guided them along this process.
Learning Objectives:
- How much, of what? Learn about the programming process for a 9th grade center to predict the number and types of spaces needed in this unique facility. Look into the learning neighborhoods that support views, collaboration, and healthy student interactions now and after the transformation into the second HS.
- Culture & Community: Understand the elements that were so important for the community to preserve and how the design responded to these issues. Learn how the building is accessible to students and the community during school and after hours.
- Sports, Fine Arts & CTE: understand how the team analyzed the needs of each program at the 9th grade level and addressed how this curriculum would be delivered. Understand how daylight and views were utilized to enhance the educational spaces.
- Two puzzles in one: Understand how the program laid out to function as a 9th grade center today, while allowing for easy expansion and reconfiguration as it grows into a second high school.
Speakers:
Jessica Molter, Principal, Pfluger Architects
Jessica is the managing principal of the Austin office and led the design team in the development of the Hutto 9th Grade Center. She loves a puzzle, and alongside her team, developed a 9th grade center that can evolve into a 2nd high school with minimal disruption for students. Jessica’s background in educational facility design leads her to deliver cost-effective and innovative design solutions that meet her clients’ needs and budgets. She has been involved in some of Pfluger Austin's most sustainable projects, including the Austin ISD Performing Art Center, Austin Community College San Gabriel Campus, and the Laurel Mountain Nature to Neighborhood Studio. In addition, Jessica strives to provide creative solutions for her clients. Some project examples include Howard Norman Elementary School, Deep Wood Elementary Wunderland, and Del Valle ISD Career & Technical Innovation Space.
Celina Estrada-Thomas, Superintendent, Hutto ISD
Dr. Estrada Thomas has dedicated her entire professional career to public school education. Her career spans 38 years in a variety of leadership roles with the most recent appointment as the superintendent for Hutto ISD in October 2017. Her life’s work has focused on ensuring equity for all children. Her paternal grandmother, father, and mother are her inspiration. Her father became a successful business owner as an adult, but he was an immigrant and a migrant worker as a youngster who wanted nothing more than to attend school. The harshness of poverty required him to work at a young age for his family. Growing up, her father instilled a love for education and continues to be her main encourager. Dr. Estrada Thomas dedicates her life’s work to honor her father and ensures that all the children, especially those from poverty, receive a quality, equitable education. She believes that strong personal relationships among everyone in a school district are the cornerstone of all sound instruction. She challenges herself annually to learn employees’ names and as many students as possible. More importantly, she advocates for well-rounded experiences for children, which makes coming to school engaging, enriching, and motivating. She is a strong supporter of the arts and athletics, innovative programs such as dual language and robotics, and anything career and technical education. She promotes innovation, leadership, and diversity of programming, all to serve students and prepare them for careers they may not know exist when they graduate.
Henry Gideon, Assistant Superintendent of Operations Hutto ISD
Gideon brings 30 years of experience in public education to Hutto, most recently as Chief Operations Officer at Boerne ISD where he directed the district’s various support departments and oversaw emergency operations planning and school resource officers since 2015. Prior to Boerne ISD, Gideon served for 24 years in Bastrop ISD as Chief Operations Officer (2006-2015), Director of Operations (2000-2006), and Director of Child Nutrition (1994-2000 and 1990-1993). In his career, Gideon’s responsibilities involved direction and oversight of a wide array of district operations and support, including Child Nutrition; Transportation; Facilities Maintenance; Emergency Operations Planning; School Resource Officers; Facilities Planning & Construction Management; Real Property & Land Use Planning; Long Range & Strategic Planning; and Demographics.
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| Charting the Course for the Careers of the Future: Future-Ready CTE |
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1 LU
Most of the jobs today’s students will encounter upon graduation do not exist yet. The opportunity of having many diverse careers under one roof lies at the fringes, at the intersection of where one program bleads into other. The synergies that can happen from these diverse programs collaborating with each other forecast the future jobs these students will encounter upon graduation. The design of TECC-W fosters these collaborations, and in doing so, broadens the interests and expertise of its students. This presentation will focus on the strategies LISD and the design team used to foster this collaboration.
Learning Objectives:
- Discover organizational strategies that created efficiencies and allowed for more collaboration spaces for students.
- Explore different techniques to ensure shops and classrooms can coexist successfully in one facility.
- Analyze how the furniture plays a key role in the educational success of the learners.
- Learn about different strategies to ensure the safety and security of students, while balancing an inviting learning environment.
Speakers:
Diego Barrera, AIA, ALEP, Design Principal, Stantec Architecture
Diego is design principal at Stantec Architecture and has over fifteen years of experience in education design. Diego creates innovative solutions for a broad range of education projects, specializing in planning, visioning, and design. As accredited learning environment planner, Diego partners with educators and communities to envision the future of their educational environments. He delivers progressive designs that respond to client's needs by implementing a comprehensive process developed through a solid understanding of the client’s vision.
Adrian Moreno, Director, Career & Technical Education, Lewisville ISD
Adrian is an experienced educator and the director at Lewisville ISD’s Technology Exploration Career Center -East. TECC East is an innovative, diverse, collaborative environment that takes learning to the next level to prepare students to be “Future Ready”. Students at the TECC East have the opportunity to thrive and truly live their learning. Preparing students for post-secondary success is a goal of Technology Exploration Career Center East. Real-world, hands on learning is synonymous with the unique learning experiences available to the student at the TECC East.
Ranae Fuhrmann, AIA, Project Director, Stantec Architecture
Ranae serves clients as a Project Director given her ability to build positive lasting relationships and her skill and knowledge of project development and delivery. Her 12 years of experience, all of which she has dedicated to Stantec, incudes: planning, design, documentation, and extensive construction administration. Ranae is naturally detail oriented and she is skilled at understanding and acting on the critical issues that keep projects moving on schedule. She works with clients in understanding and translating their goals to the entire team and she is a collaborator during construction with the builder, all while assuring that owners requirements are built into their projects.
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| What’s New With the Latest ICC 500 2020 |
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1 LU/HSW
Find out how the latest ICC 500 storm shelter standards will affect your future facility planning. The latest edition of the ICC/NSSA Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters was recently published in December 2020 and include various clarifications and new requirements for facility owners that impact permitting and maintenance of storm shelters. The 2015 International Building Code first adopted the requirement for Storm Shelters and referenced the ICC 500 as the standard for compliance. The new standards are adopted by the 2021 International Building Code.
Learning Objectives:
- Clarify the requirements of the IBC 2021 Section 423 Storm Shelter for situations where a new building or an addition is constructed on an existing campus.
- Understand an overview of the changes and clarification that are include in the ICC 500 2020 update.
- Identify major changes to the ICC 500 2020 version that have significant impact to the owner.
- Understand the pros and cons associated with different architectural design approaches that are specific to ICC 500 tornado shelters.
Speakers:
Anne Hildenbrand, AIA, ALEP, Associate Principal, BRW Architects
Anne Hildenbrand is an Associate Principal at BRW Architects with more than 25 years of experience in leading the planning, programming, and design of educational facilities. With a focus on collaboration and unified leadership, her strong sense of direction ensures that the project vision is carried through all phases of the project. The daughter of two collegiate chemists and granddaughter of an artist, she embodies the vision for both right and left-brain thinkers with a broad range of expertise in quality control, programming, sustainable design, product specification, and cost and code analysis. One of Anne’s greatest strengths is her solution-based approach which contributes to her ability to forge relationships across all stakeholder levels. Currently serving as Past President of the A4LE North Texas Chapter and having recently served on the TASA Facilities Committee for the TEA Facilities Standards, she frequently speaks at education conferences and industry association engagements.
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| Friday, April 1, 2022 | 3:30 – 4:30 PM |
| Return to Bonton: Reestablishing the Education Cornerstone |
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1 LU/HSW
Every neighborhood is unique and requires an approach to community engagement this is specifically molded to the stakeholders and the distinct challenges the projects seeks to resolve. H.S. Thompson Elementary School was once described as the “Lighthouse for Learning” for the South Dallas – Bonton Community. This Blue-Ribbon School was shuttered due to deep state-funding cuts in 2011. Through community engagement, activism and planning a plan was developed to reestablish this educational cornerstone with students activating the campus in January of this year. This session will provide an overview of the unique challenges, strategies and outcomes associated with rebuilding a legacy institution in the community.
Learning Objectives:
- Apply the unique planning strategies required to engage diverse neighborhoods and communities.
- Explore the challenges associated with a project initially driven by community leaders that must shift toward a project delivery process governed by expected educational outcomes and sustainable planning and construction delivery processes.
- Summarize how color, texture, natural light, and spatial configuration promote and impact the explorative nature of traditional K-12 education and how this can be amplified to facilitate and foster greater educational outcomes.
- Analyze how man-made risks such as adjacent high frequency transportation modes including major thoroughfares and active rail line in addition to man made threats such as tornadoes and floods impacted the design of the school on a constrained site.
Speakers:
Derwin Broughton, AIA, NCARB, Principal, KAI Enterprises
Derwin is accountable for Business Development and Client Relationships for the firm’s offices in Texas, Georgia and Missouri for all business sectors inclusive of Architecture, MEP, Construction Management, Program Management and Build. Prior to taking on this role Derwin served as the Deputy Director of Architecture for KAI managing the Architecture Division in Dallas and San Antonio.
Darren L. James, FAIA, President, KAI Enterprises
Darren is President of KAI Enterprises, a national design and construction services parent organization. In this role, Darren is responsible for marketing/sales. Darren creates growth and sales strategies for KAI Enterprises’ four companies. Darren was elevated to the American Institute of Architects College of Fellows in 2019. Darren’s devotion to economic empowerment, and passion for civic engagement was inspired early in life through observation of his environment, and familial examples.
Katy Lenihan, RA Design and Project Manager, Dallas Independent School District
Katy is currently overseeing $3.2 billion worth of project from inception through design and construction. Katy believes architects and managers should engage stakeholders and team members to facilitate the best project outcomes. She has over 20 years of experience in the industry both on the public side as a representative of the owner and on the private side as a designer, architect and historic preservationist.
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| You Have a Building, Now What? |
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1 LU/HSW
Substantial completion can be just the beginning for an Owner that needs to make a building into a school. Taking possession of a new facility engages multiple departments and entities, including Technology, Nutrition Services, Transportation, Emergency Management, Energy Management, Risk Management, Communications, Maintenance & Facilities, Fine Arts, Athletics, and most importantly Academics. Identifying best practices and critical timelines required to coordinate all those entities, this session will provide an overview in activating a facility to allow for a smooth operation on the first day for Staff, Students, and even Parents.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify and quantify "to-do" list for pre-occupancy, occupancy, and post-occupancy operation.
- Develop processes to ensure building safety coordination prior to occupation.
- Create knowledge and ownership of building reducing future and ongoing issues.
- Establish communication protocols and logistics plan for occupancy, reducing stress among the public, educators/staff, and owner.
Speakers:
Gary Whittle, Project Management Director, CBRE
Gary is currently the Project Management Director for CBRE | Heery, a full-service project management firm focused on public sector projects, primarily K-12 and higher education. He has served in this role for the last several years, managing a team of program and project managers that provide Owner’s Representation services for clients like Houston ISD, Houston Community College, Humble ISD, Lone Star College, College of the Mainland, and others. With a Bachelor of Science in Construction Science from Texas A&M and a Masters of Business Administration from TCU, Gary has spent his entire career in the construction industry. In his 20-year career, he has overseen more than $2.5 billion in commercial construction projects, serving as a Superintendent, Estimator, Project Manager, Program Manager, and Owner’s Representative. Project types have ranged from high-end corporate finish out, hospitality, mission-critical, and healthcare facilities, to public-funded K-12 and higher education projects.
Brian Telford, Executive Director of Construction, Humble ISD
Brian Telford serves as the Executive Director of Construction for Humble ISD. He has extensive construction and project management experience. He is a graduate of the University of Houston where he earned his BS in Construction Management. He also earned his certified Project Management Professional (PMP) from Rice University.
Allison Baker Director, Client Strategy, CBRE
Allison is the Director of Client Strategy with CBRE with extensive business and economic development background, strong communication and public relations skills, public and private sector project management experience, and a successful track record in developing new business while maintaining existing client relationships in seller-doer roles. She earned her BA in Sociology from the University of Texas. Allison also volunteers on numerous education and municipal boards and committees in her free time and is a member of CMAA, CREW, TEDC, and many other organizations.
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| Eight One Twenty-One – Where There is a Will There's a Way |
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1 LU
Educational Facility Implementation, Project Management/Project Delivery - project was originally assigned to be a Construction Management at Risk and switched to Competitive Sealed Proposal allowing only 10 months for construction to have substantial completion by 8.1.2021.
Learning Objectives:
- Project Management – learn how to navigate a complicated site involving multiple jurisdictions (TCEQ, TXDOT, Town of Annetta, Parker County) and a short construction schedule.
- Programming and Analysis – learn methods to expedite programming without sacrificing community engagement and transparency.
- Project Planning and Design – learn design strategies to overcome complex site issues including vehicular circulation, topography, flood plain and drainage ways, sanitary sewer treatment plants, sewer aeration fields, and water wells/storage for both potable water and fire suppression.
- Construction and Evaluation – learn how Owners, Architects and Contractors must work together to complete construction of an Elementary School in under 10 months.
Speakers:
Tyler Boswell, Director of Construction and Facilities, Aledo Independent School District
Tyler currently serves Aledo ISD as the Director of Construction and Facilities. He has led the district in the construction efforts for the 2019 Bond since starting in Aledo in 2018. He is an Illinois State University graduate and spent the first part of his career as Engineering Manager with Jamak Fabrication. In 2015 he joined the Arlington ISD team where he served as Project Manager for the district.
Lee Osborne, Principal, PBK Architects
Lee has over 25 years of architectural design experience. He has served as a leader on over one hundred K-12 projects across Texas. Lee is a responsible team captain and highly skilled in collaboration between administrators, principals, teachers, contractors, and all members of the design team. He has a proven track record for delivering projects on time and budget and has received multiple awards from AIA and TASA/TASB.
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