Sandia Vista and Cielo Azul, Prototype Elementary Schools

Elementary Schools | Middle Schools | High Schools | Specialized Educational & Administrative Facilities | K-12 Trends

These two elementary schools are part of a prototype collaboration with the Rio Rancho Public Schools (RRPS).  Working from the original program and design of an elementary school prototype created by Dekker/Perich/Sabatini, the new designs were adapted to comply with current State adequacy standards, new building code requirements, and accommodate nine additional classrooms. The modified prototype schools also address unique site conditions and both have achieved LEED certification (Sandia Vista = LEED Silver and Cielo Azul = LEED Gold).

Enhanced building performance was achieved through attention to the building envelope and systems design, including a 49% water use reduction.  These buildings have provided a unique opportunity for RRPS, Dekker/Perich/Sabatini, and the United States Green Building Council to compare performance and cost between the original, non-LEED prototype schools and the new facilities.  The design and material choices at these schools create vibrant learning environments that relate to the natural landscape while communicating a high-tech, contemporary aesthetic.

These 85,500 square-foot schools are each designed for 800 students.

Location: Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Size(s): 85,500sf each