VLK | EDGE® – Bridging Education and Architecture

WHO IS THE VLK | EDGE® TEAM AND WHAT DO THEY BRING TO THE DISCUSSION?

So how are architecture and education connected? From the time of a one-room schoolhouse model serving all students in one classroom with one set of services, to now when public educators are tasked to serve all students with all instructional needs having individualized services, the form and function of a school building has evolved. But what does that look like, and is it the same for every district? That’s where the VLK | EDGE® team steps into the gap. Since 1984, VLK has been serving school districts with exceptional design solutions. Now, with the ever-changing educational expectations across the state of Texas, VLK | EDGE® is leveraging expertise and adding decades of educational experience into the conversation. At VLK, we are all educators for life; specifically within VLK | EDGE®, we listen, engage, and partner with our design teams, as well as our clients, to help make their educational vision a reality.

	DALANE BOUILLION, Ed.D. CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER Dalane, as Chief Development Officer, leads the team of extensive experience and expertise of VLK | EDGE®. Her role includes empowering departments and other leaders to solve intricate problems, simplify complexity, and turn the unfamiliar into the familiar to see possibilities differently. As one of our educational experts, she listens, asks essential and complex questions, and ensures client expectations remain at the forefront of all communication. Dalane also leads the firm’s research and development initiatives, producing original research that informs both the educational canon of literature and VLK internal improvements that impact our designs.
	CHAD DAVIS, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C PROGRAMMING SPECIALIST As an architect within the VLK | EDGE® team, Chad has dedicated his entire 30-year career to the design of K-12 schools in Texas. His expertise includes long-range facility planning, programming, facility assessment, educational adequacy, and TEA standards. During his time at VLK, Chad has designed dozens of facilities from elementary schools to high schools, fine arts and athletic facilities, and CTE campuses. He has assisted our clients with the passing of billions in school construction bonds.
	THEO PAPPAS, AIA, ALEP, LEED AP, NCARB PROGRAMMING SPECIALIST Theo has over 40 years of experience in architecture and design and has been heavily involved in hundreds of projects for education and has served in many capacities on educational architectural projects over the years. He is most passionate about architecture for education and has devoted his time toward research and study into student-centered and teacher-centered design, with an emphasis on active and collaborative learning spaces. He has developed templates and metrics toward higher level space programming for education and is continually developing new design standards for education.
	SCOTT MILDER PRINCIPAL, K-12 SPECIALIST As Principal and K-12 Specialist, Scott leads the firm’s involvement in public education advocacy. He collaborates with firm leaders to build awareness of our role in democracy while staying abreast of legislative agendas, actions, and needed responses associated with the Texas Legislature. Scott also enhances VLK’s service strategies for school districts, serving as a thought partner. He is a recognized K-12 authority in Texas with more than 25 years of experience in the educational architectural services sector.
	SARA KOPROWSKI, M.Ed. EDUCATIONAL PLANNER Drawing from 17 years of public education experience, Sara takes pride in being a curriculum expert who is dedicated to fostering a love for learning through intentional spaces that promote inspiring experiences. As an Educational Planner, Sara is responsible for ensuring that the design solution meets the needs of the district’s educational program and that all spaces align with the curriculum. Through VLK | CURATION®, Sara studies a district’s strategic plans, goals for curriculum and instruction, current instructional methodologies, academic programs, and incorporates the voice of the user. These elements scaffold the firm’s understanding, allowing the team to collaborate and form the foundation that drives all aspects of design.
	RICK WESTFALL, M.Ed. EDUCATIONAL PLANNER Rick brings 31 years of educational experience to the conversation. Whether it is knowledge of the needs of the classroom, campus, district, or the experiences of an educator – all prove to be a valuable source of information throughout the design process. Rick says, “Through those experiences, I learned how to listen first to ensure the best possible outcomes for the teachers and students.” Rick uses his listening skills, ensuring only the best learning environments for students. His expertise can be seen in his daily conversations with clients and VLK staff.
	KEVIN WORTHY EDUCATIONAL PLANNER During his 31 years in public education, Kevin has recognized the importance of a positive school culture. During that time, he has championed initiatives focused on school environments and experiences for all students. By fostering a sense of belonging and respect among students, teachers, and staff, Kevin has ensured that schools became nurturing environments where every individual could thrive. Kevin says, “I believe learning is enhanced when it is a team effort. Good learning, like good work, is collaborative, not competitive and isolated. Sharing one’s own ideas and responding to others’ reactions improves thinking and deepens understanding.”