WRA Architects designed a major architectural renovation to W. T. White High School is one of the projects in Dallas ISD’s Interim Bridge Plan, which was approved last March. The project will provide a 30-classroom addition and new energy efficient replacement windows throughout the fifty-one year old structure.
“I can see how grateful Principal Michelle Thompson and the community are for the resources that DISD has allocated through its bridge plan,” says Jeff Miller, a partner with WRA Architects and the lead designer on the project. “The parents are very involved, and it shows in the amazing things the students are doing at W. T. White.”
The primary goal of this project is to provide an addition to the facility to accommodate the 600 students currently walking out to portable classroom buildings several times every day, and bring them into the main facility. This will improve the health, safety and welfare of the students and faculty. The new energy efficient windows will dramatically reduce the district’s utility operating costs and bring a revitalization to the exterior.
“Designing an addition that respects the existing architecture is always a goal. We hope that shows in the final product. I have some personal history with this school, and it is nice to give back to the community and school district that gave me so much,” said Miller. Mr. Miller is a 1982 graduate of W. T. White High School.
Other upgrades will include much needed visitor parking, security lighting and improved accessibility at the front entrance. The project is currently scheduled for construction to begin this summer and be completed in August 2017.
