VLK Architects Celebrate the Dedication of Katy ISD’s McElwain Elementary School
Houston, Texas (April 8, 2021) – VLK Architects and Katy Independent School District board members joined together to commemorate the new Peter McElwain Elementary School with a dedication ceremony. Chosen as the namesake due to his commitment and dedication to Katy ISD, Peter McElwain led a 30-year career serving as a Katy ISD District Architect. During the ceremony, he was presented with a portrait for the campus to proudly display as a reminder of the namesake and the legacy that will live on in this building for generations.
“We are excited to partner with Katy ISD and to celebrate the opening of this tremendous new facility and the fact that it is named after my friend Peter McElwain makes it even more special. Peter served Katy ISD for many years and VLK and I owe him a great deal for the opportunities, mentorship, and guidance that he has provided that greatly contributed to the success of our firm throughout the years,” said Todd Lien, AIA, VLK Architects Managing Partner.
McElwain was the visionary leader in working with VLK Architects to develop this state-of-the-art elementary school prototype design and various other projects such as Katy ISD Legacy Stadium and Field House, Katy High School West Campus, Gerald D. Young Agricultural Sciences Facility, Jenks Elementary, Bethke Elementary, Bryant Elementary, Campbell Elementary, Katy High School Baseball Renovations, Taylor High School Baseball Renovations, Additions and Renovations to Mayde Creek and Sundown Elementary, Zelma Hutsell Exterior Renovations, Renovations and Additions at Maintenance & Operations.
“The architecture of a school building has the opportunity to contribute to the collaboration and relationship between and among teachers and students. An effective learning environment can encourage collaboration, communication, creative thinking, and critical thinking,” said Dr. Christine Caskey, Chief Academic Officer.
McElwain Elementary was a project included in the district’s $24.7 million bond referendum, which voters approved in 2017. The new school is 144,303 SF and will serve 1,030 students in kindergarten through 5th grade. The official opening date was August 19, 2020.