Pieper Ranch Middle School

Comal ISD

Comal ISD created a Visioning Committee with members from District administration, local campuses, parents, academic departments, community members, and students to reconcept their Middle School model. The resulting building follows a circular path surrounding a central courtyard. The circular concept allows the building to “step down” with the topography, minimizing the amount of cut/fill brought to the site. Classrooms are grouped for ultimate flexibility – administration can have grade-based alignment, subject-based alignment, or a hybrid.

I grew up in the San Antonio area, though I was born at Fort Bragg, NC. My mom was an army nurse, and my dad was a pharmacist, so they always thought I'd end up in the medical field. For a while, I did too—I started college as a pre-med student. But a fender-bender during my freshman year changed everything. I got into a car accident with a professor, and because I was a student, the insurance companies assumed I was at fault. Determined to prove otherwise, I spent three days drafting detailed plans of the accident—before, during, and after. I ended up having way more fun doing that than my biology homework, and that's when I knew architecture was my true calling. I earned a BA in Architecture from Baylor University and a Master's in Architecture from Washington University in St. Louis. Now, I'm passionate about creating spaces that will impact generations of students. The work we do has a lasting effect, and that's what keeps me motivated every day. When I'm not busy at work, you can find me running the parental taxi service for gymnastics, violin, and baseball practice. It's a great way to stay connected with my kids! But when I get the chance, I love cooking, reading, and planning our next family trip.

What's an unusual skill you have that people might not know about? I have always enjoyed dancing—not dancing like at a wedding reception, but actual technical dance. And after a long search, I finally found a local studio that offers adult-level classes! This year I'm taking jazz, ballet, and tap classes!

What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone starting their career? No one is going to advocate for you more than yourself. Don't undersell yourself. Push yourself, ask for help, and volunteer to take on more responsibility...set yourself apart from the crowd.