Wallace Design Collective

Welte Education Center is an alternative high school that supports students in graduating with a high school diploma. Welte Education Center aims to keep diverse students in a safe learning culture that incorporates social and emotional skills with challenging academics in order to create individuals who are proactive in their family, community, and work setting.

Wallace Design Collective provided structural engineering services for the new two-story educational facility. The 44,000 square foot school features a number of specialized learning environments which were designed in response to the unique educational model envisioned by the district. A “second chance” classroom suite is designed around small class sizes and includes technology for distance learning programs. Another highlight of the building is the state-of-the-art Culinary Arts teaching kitchen. Featuring four commercial teaching stations, this program will dovetail with the nationally recognized culinary arts program at Pikes Peak Community College and will hopefully allow students to transfer credits between programs. 

Designed with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind, the school also features high performance mechanical systems, daylighting in teaching spaces, and incorporates recycled materials.

photos: ©Neil Podoll Photography