Game Development Design School

Burleson, Texas

Firm

Pfluger Architects

Client

Burleson Independent School District

Area

33,787 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$6,320,849

Completion Date

10/2021

Wade Griffith Photography; Mike Elmore, Pfluger Architects

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Welcome to the Game Development Design School, where innovation meets education in a transformative learning experience. Born from the opportunity to transform a commercial property with a state-of-the-art events venue into an unparalleled learning environment, the school’s open concept features glass, steel, ambient lighting, and alternative seating that evoke a high-tech, industry-inspired atmosphere.

The curriculum at this groundbreaking school is geared toward students who often slip through the cracks in traditional educational settings; those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD/ADHD, and other learning differences thrive here. They earn business and industry endorsements in arts, audio/video technology, and communications through computer science, video game design, and multimedia arts courses. By the end of their junior year, most students have earned one or more industry-based certifications in programs like Adobe Photoshop and Python.

This classroom-free environment challenges the conventional school model with a flexible layout that supports various educational delivery methods. Teachers here creatively accommodate over 400 independent learners who take ownership of their education, choosing how they learn and collaborate, while developing essential life skills such as prioritizing, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication. The school fosters a sense of community that values good citizenship, compassion, responsibility, and community service.

The Game Development Design School is not for everyone, but for those who thrive in its environment, the results are impressive. The school’s revolutionary approach has helped students significantly improve test scores across multiple subject areas. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and prepares students for future careers that may not yet exist—making it an ideal environment for self-starters and creative thinkers seeking a non-traditional learning experience. Ultimately, this trailblazing institution provides students with tools and opportunities that prepare them for a rapidly evolving world.