VLK Architects Celebrates Ribbon Cutting of Austin Elementary School with Pecos-Barstow-Toyah ISD
On Tuesday, September 12, 2023, Pecos-Barstow-Toyah Independent School District (PBTISD) and VLK Architects celebrated the official ribbon-cutting ceremony and community grand opening for the new Austin Elementary School. The campus is home to pre-kindergarten through first grade students and provides a rigorous learning environment where students are inspired and empowered to become champions of their educational journeys.
“VLK is grateful for the partnership we have established with both Pecos-Barstow-Toyah ISD and its community,” said Monika Castillo, Principal at VLK Architects. “It is very rewarding to see the impact that this new facility is bringing to the students and staff of the district and the opportunities that will be provided to the education being delivered to PBTISD.”
The design of the new 87,000 sf campus for PBTISD features focused learning nooks, music, and art rooms, as well as a 1,000-foot drop-off lane to ease traffic. A part of the district’s rich history, the archway from Pecos Elementary was brought to the new campus to pay homage to the Pecos community.
“The grand opening of the new Austin Elementary is a celebration of our community’s resilience and determination,” said Brent Jaco, Superintendent of Pecos-Barstow-Toyah ISD. “It reminds us that we can all unite to ensure our children have the resources they need to thrive. We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and today we are building a brighter future for generations to come.”
The previous elementary campus served first through third grade students in PBTISD for 70 years and will be transformed into a Staff Professional Development & Parent Support Center. Funding for the new Austin Elementary School was included in the May 2021 bond.