Duvall Decker first completed a full assessment of the district’s existing structures to develop a district-wide strategic educational and facility plan. The plan recommended a mixture of renovations and new structures. Because school districts in Mississippi have limited funding, the architect designed a strategy to maximize those limited resources for facility improvements across the district. Over the course of several years, the architect completed many strategic projects, including the new Mendenhall Elementary Classroom Building and Media Center, the renovation of Mendenhall High School gymnasium, which included the addition of new health classrooms, public lobby, and facilities for patrons of games and events, the Magee Elementary facility renovation, the new Magee High School and gymnasium additions, and the renovation of Simpson Central gymnasium.
The educational spaces are economical, durable, and efficient and offer more than the expected minimum classroom standards. The innovative and engaging forms and spaces fit well into the small-town settings but are also a departure from the normal order of things, reflecting the district’s hopes and expectations for its students. Designed to be a third teacher, the educational spaces are a partner with the community and teachers in the educational experience.
Duvall Decker was assisted by Engineering Associates, LLC, I.C. Thomasson Associates, Inc, and Construction Cost Analysis.
Awards
2009 AIA Gulf States Region Honor Citation
2007 AIA Mississippi Honor Award
2006 AIA Mississippi Merit Award
Publications
AIA Industry News, 2009
