Meridith-Dunbar Early Childhood Academy

Temple, Texas

Renovating a 1950s Education Space in Temple, Texas

Temple ISD’s Meridith-Dunbar Early Childhood Academy was one of the final projects in the district’s 2015 Bond Package. With three summers of renovations, our team delivered the final product over a year before the original completion date – a testament to the trust and relationship built between American Constructors and Temple ISD.


Square Footage

76,000

Location

Temple, Texas

Type

K-12

Owner

Temple ISD

Architect

Stantec

What We Built

The American Constructors’ team completed a nearly $7.3 million renovation for Meridith-Dunbar Early Childhood Academy. These included interior improvements, an HVAC system upgrade, life safety improvements, and more.


How We Built It

Transforming a former high school to a space for 3-5-year-olds meant American Constructors had to get on a child’s level, literally. First, our team researched the average height and reach of 3-year-olds. Then we collaborated and coordinated with the design team and owner to plan for small, child­-size facilities.

Structural design – American Constructors helped design the furr downs necessary to outfit the 1950s building for modern systems, like AC ductwork and fire sprinklers.

Additionally, we suggested numerous structural modifications throughout the project to deliver the highest quality product, while maintaining a strict budget. For example, our team re-designed the building’s original staircases, replacing sections of the stairs with ramps. Original plans called for steel beams as the main support of the new structure. However, after removing the existing slab, our team found inadequate support for steel beams and seamlessly pivoted to an all-concrete design – preventing any loss of time or money.

Testimonial

“American Constructors and its subcontractors are an important part of the Temple ISD team...and it goes way beyond bricks and mortar.”
Kent Boyd,Assistant Superintendent of Facilities & Operations at Temple ISD

Partner With Us on Your K-12 Project

Our clients enjoy working with an expert team that can build, expand, and renovate K-12 facilities and campuses. Complete the form to connect with us.

Build Your Own Brochure

Download a customized brochure in just three steps.

Market Sectors

Services

Step 2

Complete this form to let us know where to send your brochure.

You're Done!

Click the button below to download your copy now or check your inbox to review the brochure at your leisure.