Del Valle Independent School District (ISD) is a quickly growing area in the Central Texas tech corridor in East Austin. The district set out to replace two aging elementary schools to accommodate a growing student population, with one design that could serve both communities. The district’s goal was to create modern learning environments that meet the needs of today’s students and a growing population while balancing the distinct cultures of each campus. Careful planning ensured that the single design fit both sites and was built without interrupting school operations.

The new Smith Elementary School is a one-story school designed around connection – to nature, to community, and to curiosity. Natural light, color, and texture make the interiors bright and engaging. Classrooms open to secure outdoor spaces, giving every grade level direct access to outdoor learning and play. And rather than centralizing outdoor play to one location, a network of shaded play and sensory areas weaves through the campus. These spaces support wellness and movement while offering different ways to explore. The playgrounds include accessible equipment, sensory features, low-maintenance turf, and areas designed for special education students.

Inside, kid-scaled details and color-tunable lighting make classrooms adaptable and welcoming. The library balances energy and calm, with an active entry zone for group work and a quieter area for reading and reflection. The design team and the district did extensive research to incorporate sensory-rich design components into this school. From tiles with various textures to sensory boards that require focus and create calm, this design prioritizes student wellness holistically.

The school’s welcoming entry creates a strong sense of arrival for students and families. Located next to Ojeda Middle School, the campus connects to its neighbor through a new internal drive, strengthening continuity across grade levels. A new infant through PreK Child Development Center on the site also further expands the learning community.

Design: Pfluger Architects
Contractor: American Constructors
Photography: Thomas McConnell