J.R. Tucker High School

A carefully choreographed phased construction plan moved the Tucker Tigers out of the mid-century and into the 21st century.  The new 265,000 square foot school was constructed adjacent to the former school while still in operation to maintain continuity for the students and staff.  The design approach focused on decarbonization, ecological conservation, and wellness in the learning environment.

The project received the Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR (DEES) designation from the US EPA.  Energy efficient design strategies included optimization of the building envelope (walls, windows, and roof significantly improved compared to code-minimum), a 92% efficient boiler for space heating, and LED interior lighting.  A large-scale 1,004 kW rooftop solar paneling system was installed through a power purchase agreement with Sun Tribe Solar (now Madison Energy Infrastructure).  This array was designed to offset 37% of the facility’s energy costs and successfully produced 1,380,426 kWh during the first year of service (May 2023 through April 2024).  Overall, the design is modeled to reduce energy costs by 55% compared to baseline building per ASHRAE 90.1-2010.  The school is also enrolled in a demand response program with CPower.

A 36% reduction in indoor water use was achieved through fixture and fitting selection, equating to the conservation of over 878,000 gallons of potable water annually.  Water-conserving commercial washing machines and kitchen equipment have been provided.

Large classroom windows and common area glazing provide significant daylighting and access to quality views. Courtyard spaces were provided to encourage outdoor learning and usage for teachers and students.  Two multi-purpose fields were also provided to encourage outdoor engagement and physical activity.

Two classrooms at the ends of each academic wing are connected with a folding partition wall that when opened, creates a large collaborative classroom. Garage doors at the entrance to these flexible spaces allow the rooms to open to the hallway and the adjacent extended learning area.  Located in the library while still being open to the main street, students use a learning stair area as a community gathering space for socializing, brainstorming, and presenting.

J.R. Tucker High supports a community environment by hosting the Center for Spanish Language and Global Citizenship, International Baccalaureate Program, and Advance College Academy for Social Sciences.  Additionally, the county’s English as a Second Language Welcome Center is located at the main entrance in a space that was designed to warmly greet new residents. The center features areas where new residents can meet with interpreters, educational specialists, and teacher liaisons to receive specialized support and services.