To prepare for future growth and alleviate current overcrowding, Rockwall ISD recognized the need for two new ninth-grade campuses — one for Rockwall High School and one for Rockwall Heath High School. Corgan was tasked to design both campuses as thoughtful extensions of the existing comprehensive grade 9 to 12 high schools with academic alignment, student experience and community identity.

In early conversations, students, faculty and community members shared a desire to create schools with a strong, lasting presence. As a result, the new campuses set a precedent for future development and serve as models of innovation, identity and connection.

The two campuses are master planned to support the district’s long-term vision for growth with a future tenth-grade addition and ultimately become comprehensive high schools. The design emphasizes flexibility for evolving educational needs while maximizing efficiency for future expansions with minimal built-in furniture and strategic sizing of core elements such as the commons, library and corridors.

Both campuses will prepare ninth graders with academic and career-ready skills to collaborate and think critically in a positive, empathetic, and supportive environment. Open learning spaces with group seating areas, lounges and tech centers create opportunities for hands-on learning and encourage collaboration.

Areas for both individual and group activities are designed to support the transition from middle school to high school, building connections and empathy with others and offering possibilities for social interaction.

Access to outdoor spaces provides areas for respite, restoration, and connection to nature promote mental health and wellbeing. Supporting sports and extra-curricular activities, the ninth-grade campuses also have core spaces, practice fields, and fine arts areas.

In recognizing the spirited rivalry between the two high schools, each campus reinforces its respective identity through bold, branded graphics. While each school has its own brand, the two emulate the districts core pillars of a focus on relationships, a history of innovation and a commitment to excellence to reflect the greater community’s values and foster a sense of belonging.

Design: Corgan
Design Team: Susan Smith, Beverly Fornof, Lane Pendleton, Paige Russell, Tai Kolisnyk, Allison Howard, Morgan Howell, Kelly Arredondo, Ryan Connell
Photography: Corgan