Dallas ISD campuses earn Texas’ top architecture honor

Two campuses within the Dallas Independent School District have been awarded Texas’ highest accolade for school architecture, following significant renovations that have revitalized outdated facilities into contemporary learning spaces.

The Dallas Independent School District has revealed that Career Institute North and Geneva Heights Elementary School have been chosen for the esteemed 2025-2026 Caudill Class. The designation represents the highest honor within the Exhibit of School Architecture program, showcasing projects that effectively transform existing campuses instead of opting for demolition.

Career Institute North has emerged from the devastation caused by an EF3 tornado that destroyed the former Walnut Hill Elementary campus in 2019. The district has opted to transform the site into a state-of-the-art career training center, catering to students from five high schools in North Dallas, rather than clearing it. The campus officially opened its doors in 2023.

The facility has expanded its offerings to include over 16 career pathways, delivering hands-on instruction and industry-recognized certifications that enable students to join the workforce right after graduation.

Geneva Heights Elementary signifies a unique form of transformation. The 1931 Art Deco campus has recently undergone a renovation, successfully preserving its historic red-brick façade while simultaneously modernizing classrooms and shared spaces.

District officials announced that feedback from the community was instrumental in guiding the redesign process. The campus has recently unveiled a newly constructed wing, increasing its capacity to accommodate approximately 750 students ranging from prekindergarten to fifth grade. The revamped design showcases adaptable learning spaces, collaborative zones abundant in natural light, and outdoor gardens strategically positioned around a central courtyard.

Both campuses have received recognition for their ability to harmonize historical significance with modern educational requirements, a crucial focus for urban districts grappling with aging infrastructure.

The 2026 Texas Association of School Administrators Midwinter Conference in San Antonio prominently featured selected projects from the Caudill Class.

The recognition highlights the ability of districts to update their facilities while maintaining the historic and cultural significance of neighborhood landmarks.

District leaders announced that the recognition underscores Dallas ISD’s dedication to innovative design aimed at enhancing workforce readiness and fostering 21st-century learning environments.