Canutillo ISD Middle Schools

DLR GROUP AND ROOT ARCHITECTS

“This project showed a lot of ambition for a public building type that is a difficult one. We appreciated the spatial exploration in the exterior and interstitial spaces between the two wings. The interior slot of space operates much like a kind of internalized landscape.”

—Heather Roberge, AIA

The vision for the Canutillo and Alderete Middle Schools is rooted in community, connection, and harmony with nature. Anchored by “The Paseo”—a central pathway weaving through each campus—the design promotes movement, gathering, and shared experiences. Classrooms, courtyards, and collaboration zones extend from this spine, promoting interaction and inclusion while maximizing daylight and views. While the campuses share a common footprint for equity and efficiency, the materiality, landscape, and layout of each respond to the character, culture, and context its neighborhood. Adaptable learning suites, performance and athletic spaces, outdoor classrooms, and specialized labs meet program needs. Sustainability strategies—passive solar design, daylight harvesting, low-VOC materials, and energy-efficient systems—combine with welcoming public spaces to prioritize flexibility, growth, and community access.