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In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, innovative infrastructure upgrades and outdoor learning spaces are proving to be transformative in fostering positive mental health outcomes, and the data proves it:

Prioritizing Outdoor Learning and Safety Improvements Revealed:
  • 90% of teachers noted that children are happier after learning outdoors (National Wildlife Federation)
  • 72% reported improved physical and mental health (National Wildlife Federation)
  • 27% increase in science test scores from outdoor learning (American Institutes for Research)
  • 15% reduction in feelings of stress and anxiety at schools that implemented safety improvements, such as better traffic management and pedestrian pathways (CDC)

In our latest insight, we explore how Dunaway’s engineers, surveyors, and landscape architects are helping to make these outdoor spaces and safety improvements a reality. From Seguin ISD’s McQueeney Elementary School, with its dynamic courtyards and recreational tracks, to LEISD’s Little Elm High School’s thoughtfully designed outdoor bistro and gathering spaces, these projects showcase how intentional design can meet the developmental and mental health needs of students while also supporting academic achievement.

McQueeney Elementary School – Seguin, Texas
Disciplines: Civil, Survey

McQueeney Elementary School – Seguin, Texas

Dunaway is proud to have delivered comprehensive design services for the innovative McQueeney Elementary School, a new addition to Seguin ISD that serves 826 students. Nestled within the natural landscape, the school boasts a distinctive three-tiered foundation that harmonizes with the site’s topography, maximizing space utilization while minimizing the need for extensive earthwork.

The district has a long history of prioritizing the outdoors. As Seguin ISD Superintendent Dr. Veronica Vijil explains, “Seguin ISD has a legacy of commitment to leveraging outdoor learning opportunities. As our region grows, we recognize the unique opportunity to keep our students’ foundational and developmental needs at the center of all our decisions.”

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The research is consistent and conclusive that outdoor learning environments can support increased student engagement. We are excited to include intentional outdoor learning spaces in our newest campus design in Seguin ISD.

 

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Dr. Veronica Vijil , Superintendent, Seguin ISD

The design of McQueeney Elementary not only presents a visually striking structure but also incorporates five outdoor courtyards as dynamic learning environments, complete with seating walls, dual playgrounds, and a walking track for student recreation. “The research is consistent and conclusive that outdoor learning environments can support increased student engagement. We are excited to include intentional outdoor learning spaces in our newest campus design in Seguin ISD.”

Dunaway’s team meticulously crafted the site plan for the school, including drive aisles that adhere to fire code specifications, ample parking facilities, and thoughtful grading that respects the natural terrain, in addition to essential public utility services, and a stormwater detention pond to manage runoff. Throughout the project, Dunaway secured necessary permits from Guadalupe County, which guided the competitive sealed bidding process and offered unwavering construction support, ensuring the project’s success from conception to completion.

Little Elm High School – Town of Little Elm, Texas
Disciplines: Civil, Survey, Planning + Landscape Architecture

Little Elm High School – Town of Little Elm, Texas

The Little Elm High School Entry and Circulation Improvements project is part of the broader efforts by the Little Elm Independent School District (LEISD) to enhance the infrastructure and functionality of its campuses to improve the flow of traffic and help facilitate safer, more efficient entry and exit points for students, staff, and visitors, in addition to providing unique outdoor learning spaces for students.

Dunaway provided civil engineering, surveying, planning, and landscape architecture improvements at Little Elm High School. Dunaway’s landscape architects worked with architects at Huckabee in preparing conceptual design and construction documents for a new front entry plaza, outdoor dining and bistro area, and other landscape beautification improvements to accompany the renovation and expansion of the existing high school building.

LEISD planners were excited about stone seat walls, decorative paving and ornamental plantings that provide students with a more “collegiate” campus feel in its outdoor spaces. At the heart of the new entry plaza is a raised planter which will eventually showcase artwork created by students as a key entry feature. Dunaway civil engineers supported Huckabee in designing all new and renovated drives and utilities for the project. Dunaway traffic engineers also provided a comprehensive improvement of the vehicular circulation in parking areas, student pick up/drop offs, and bus loading areas throughout the campus.

Blending Nature With Education

Research consistently highlights the profound impact of outdoor environments and safety improvements on student well-being – reducing stress, encouraging social-emotional growth, and inspiring creativity. By blending nature with education and prioritizing improvements, districts are creating environments that cultivate happiness, focus, and resilience – equipping students with tools for success both in and out of the classroom.

What infrastructure upgrades would best support mental health and wellness in your district?

As a multi-discipline firm focused on education, we are passionate about providing innovative and sustainable solutions for educational facilities while always keeping the students’ needs top of mind. Contact Dunaway’s design professionals today to learn how we can make your vision a reality.