Rogers Heritage High School

Rogers, Arkansas

Firm

Hight Jackson Associates

Client

Rogers School District

Area

338,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$39,700,000

Completion Date

08/2008

When student enrollment growth required a second high school, the former high school, being used as a 10th-grade center, was chosen as the site. The architect’s challenge for the expanded high school was that it be “equitable” with the existing high school in appearance, size and opportunities for learning. The existing campus consisted of several separate buildings on different levels connected by covered walkways. The challenge of providing interior connections between the buildings that were retained, while creating new spaces that present a unified appearance, was daunting.

The new administrative area, situated at the front of the campus, features a two-story curved glass wall with bright orange EIFS above. The secured vestibule entry to the office on the lower level is connected by a monumental stair to the main level where career/college counseling is situated.

The project was constructed using a structural system of conventional steel framing and concrete retaining walls, with the administration area being a combination of concrete masonry unit perimeter walls and metal stud with gypsum board.