Cotulla High School

Cotulla ISD

Cotulla High School has a legacy that stretches back to the early 1900s. Its walls have seen generations grow, learn, and thrive. But time has brought challenges that demand attention. The sprawling campus, with its limited interior corridors and many outdoor access points, creates problems in logistics and safety. Recognizing the urgent need for modernization, especially after the events in Uvalde, just 75 miles to their south, the district took action and approved a bond in May of 2022 to fund the replacement of Cotulla High School, with a particular focus on enhancing safety and security. They wanted a solution that struck the right balance between a safe school and a design that preserved the CHS tradition and charm. Pfluger earned that right to work with the district with the transformation focusing on “HealthySafe,” a holistic approach to school design developed by Pfluger’s health & safety research and benchmarking team.

The transformation began with community engagement to identify unique challenges and aspirations. A single, secure entry point enhances safety while the campus layout fosters project-based learning and collaboration. Existing natural elements, like heritage trees and a pond, are preserved to enrich educational experiences. The design also brings visibility to Career and Technical Education spaces, merging security and innovation.