HOUSTON (January 15, 2026) – Pfluger Architects and Drymalla Construction completed the first iteration of a new prototype elementary school designed for Lamar Consolidated Independent School District (Lamar CISD), one of Texas’ fastest growing districts. The first of three schools to be built on-site in the Cross Creek West master-planned community, Haygood Elementary School fosters a stimulating, light-filled, and secure atmosphere for young learners, setting a new elementary design standard for the district. Funded through the district’s 2022 $1.5 billion bond package, the 110,000 square-foot campus featuring an expansive 4,200 square-foot library and 46 classrooms serves up to 854 students in this rapidly growing area west of Houston.
Lamar CISD serves nearly 49,000 students across 57 campuses and is expected to enroll 70,000 students within 10 years. Located in Fulshear, a far west Houston suburb, Haygood Elementary serves families in this rapidly growing area, defined by sustainable, master-planned neighborhoods developed by award-winning homebuilders, drawing in a diverse mix of young families seeking high-quality schools, modern amenities, and a strong sense of community.
A prototype design establishes core programmatic elements such as learning community sizes, support spaces, and library placement. The Haygood Elementary design was consistent with the district’s requirements yet also reflects the site and community’s unique character. With a focus on functionality, efficiency, and interaction, the design strikes a balance between transparency and safety, creating spaces that inspire curiosity and connection. This balance between standardization and adaptability was central to the design approach, ultimately allowing Haygood Elementary and future schools built from this model to be both cost-effective and contextually responsive.
“Because this school is the first iteration of Lamar CISD’s new prototype, the design had to function as a repeatable model for the district. That meant creating a building that was simple, efficient, and flexible enough to adapt to different sites, orientations, and conditions while still maintaining a strong identity and consistent learning experience,” said Christian Owens, Principal Design Director at Pfluger Architects.
From the playful hedgehog graphics in the library and learning communities to the light-filled courtyards, the design reflects the welcoming character of the neighborhood. Glass walls and interconnected courtyards put education at the forefront and reveal layers of activity and curiosity – a vibrant composition of openness, imagination, and energy that captures the heart of the design. The school feels alive, connected, and inspiring.
| Your local NPK Construction Equipment Inc dealer |
|---|
| WPI |
The building’s use of glass and strategically placed courtyards maximize natural daylight, reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day. Shades and films are layered to balance energy efficiency with security and comfort. The district prioritized materials that have a long-life span and require minimal upkeep, lowering both cost and environmental impact over time.
“Haygood demonstrates that a school can be both safe and inspiring, welcoming natural light and the outdoors using strategies like secured glazing, protective shading, and enclosed courtyards without sacrificing openness,” said Raleigh Sullivan, Principal at Pfluger Architects’ Houston office. “I believe that design can push boundaries to create learning spaces like Haygood that are inspiring, connected, adaptable, and deeply human.”
Named in honor of long-time Lamar CISD educators James Richard and Marinella Haygood, the school reflects the couple’s lifelong dedication to teaching, serving the community, and fostering the arts. Haygood Elementary’s mascot, the Hedgehogs – visible in playful, colorful graphics throughout the campus, carry forward the couple’s tradition of learning and creativity.
“Haygood Elementary and its programs were designed with the future in mind. We want every child here to feel inspired to explore, question, and grow. Haygood isn’t just a school – it’s a launchpad for lifelong learning,” said Dr. Shannon Hood, Lamar CISD Area Superintendent. “Since the campus opened, the halls have been filled with energy, joy, and a true sense of community. Our students are already showing the curiosity and kindness that this campus was built to nurture.”
