Del Valle Independent School District (ISD), in partnership with Pfluger Architects and American Constructors, has broken ground on a new high school designed to expand Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings and ease overcrowding in the rapidly growing district southeast of Austin, Texas.
The $2 billion Whisper Valley development, a green master-planned community that will eventually include 7,500 net-zero homes, will house the 78-acre campus. Once complete in August 2027, the new high school will serve 2,400 students and include a main academic building, field house, concessions, and baseball and softball facilities—totaling 473,338 square feet.
The design reflects Del Valle ISD’s commitment to sustainability and equity. Features include a geothermal energy system, solar-ready infrastructure, and HVAC condensation reuse for irrigation. Locally sourced Texas limestone and brick highlight the structure, while courtyards and promenades flood classrooms with natural light. Even the library will feature a balcony opening to an outdoor courtyard.
“Central to the whole design is the Learning Courtyard that creates both visual and physical connections—encouraging interaction and supporting a sense of belonging across campus,” says Heather Rule, Senior Project Manager with Pfluger Architects. “The design was inspired by vibrant city centers where people naturally gather, connect, and learn from one another.”
The campus will also feature flexible learning spaces for programs in technology, robotics, manufacturing and cosmetology, while athletics and fine arts facilities will be accessible to the broader community.
“Equity was a driving factor in the campus design, ensuring the new school offers the same learning opportunities as the existing high school,” says Christian Owens, Principal Design Director at Pfluger Architects.
Del Valle High School currently operates 800 students over capacity. Supported by the district’s 2022 bond, the new facility is intended to address enrollment pressures and ensure all students have access to modern spaces and resources.
“This is going to be a world-class facility where students have access to a wealth of educational and real-world opportunities that prepare them for success following graduation,” says Superintendent Dr. Matthew Gutierrez.
