Weslaco ISD asked ERO to modernize its Central Middle School making it on par with newer district middle schools. The 70,000 gsf expansion increased student capacity to 1,000 and provided new spaces for STEM educational preparation. The plan included a new secure entrance, administrative offices and library and a renovated performing arts center.

The secure entrance is flanked by the administrative offices and library which together form a new focal point and lobby at the center of the school. On the exterior and visible through the tinted-glass entrance for full spectrum lighting is a copse of trees containing two 60-year old oak trees, respecting the existing landscaping. The entrance accesses ample hallways forming the spine of the building and the new classroom spaces. The 1950’s performing arts center (31,856 gsf) was renovated after the addition and much to the satisfaction of the community the wooden lamella structure was preserved as a part of the modernization. The 1,800-seat auditorium is fully-equipped with state-of-the-art lighting, audio, A/V and TV systems, a full curtain package, second-floor dressing rooms, storage, and a dock. The performing arts center retrofit truly represents a 21st Century transformation.