Preparing students through real-world experiences
Tyler ISD’s Early College High School (ECHS), adjacent to their Career & Technology Center (CTC), creates synergy between skilled trade, professional programs and college readiness. Designed to elevate the student experience, the school encourages mentorship, a pathway to collegiate education and real-world connections while prioritizing indoor and outdoor learning spaces for socialization and collaborative study.

The new program bridges into the collegiate atmosphere with specific design goals focused on post-secondary career preparation and credentials, advancing academic outcomes, and promoting a spirit of place and connection to mentors and peers.

Indoor and outdoor learning spaces
The academic area follows a college model which reflects the school’s unique program, allowing students to choose from a variety of spaces to work, study, and socialize between classes. Double-height windows fill the building with natural light and frame views of the piney woods, exposing students to learning outside the typical classroom. A main staircase connects the two-story classroom wing encouraging interaction as students traverse through the space. Collaboration spaces with glass dividers distributed along corridors offer spaces for collaboration and small breakout groups.

The Commons
Used by both schools in various ways, The Commons is intentionally designed to be multi-functional and emulate a college student union. Double height volumes open to an outdoor courtyard providing both indoor and outdoor spaces for dining as well as large group teaching and presentations. Multiple seating options include learning stairs, community tables, booths, and soft seating. A freestanding divider system in the center of Commons provides connectivity and AV for multiple classes to come together in one space.

Inspired by nature
Natural elements from the conifer forest inform the biophilic design: brick and wood finishes connect interior and outdoor spaces while a natural color palette and geometric patterns enliven the space. The collegiate environment prepares graduates for their academic and professional careers with future forward spaces that support their success.

Design: Corgan
Associate Architect: Fitzpatrick Architects
Contractor: SCI Construction
Photography: courtesy of Corgan