Project description
Phase I of the Aurora Public Schools Vista PEAK Preparatory School was a new high school that opened in the fall of 2011. The 220,000-square-foot high school serves 1,350 students in grades 9 through 12 at complete enrollment. Vista PEAK is part of the new 100-acre APS P-20 Education Pathways System located in eastern Aurora. P-20 Education is an integrated education system that extends from pre-school through higher education to provide a seamless experience for all students.
Vista PEAK Preparatory School was designed and built to foster an environment that enhances student learning. The school district’s goal was to create a new high school that provided a “state-of-the-art” learning environment while operating efficiently. The other goal, as good public stewards, was to build the school sustainably.
To meet the district’s vision, Cator Ruma & Associates explored several mechanical systems: some “tried and true,” as well as newer technology systems. These systems were evaluated to determine how best to integrate them into the building’s design components. We took a collaborative approach to the project with the architects.
Based on the analysis and collaboration, we selected an HVAC system that delivers excellent low-energy performance and the best ventilation effectiveness. This “Displacement Ventilation” (DV) system enabled us to create a learning environment for students and faculty that is highly comfortable and supports the district’s vision for student education. The system’s application includes indirect evaporative cooling, which reduces energy costs.
Now fully operational, Mechanical and Lighting Systems are performing above the school district’s expectations. Students and faculty have provided highly positive feedback on those systems and their contribution to an enhanced learning environment.
Phase II of the project includes a two-story wing addition to support additional STEM programs, including both standard and lab classrooms, as well as specialty areas. It also includes minor renovations and additions to the existing athletic areas and the commons area. All systems for this work are integrated with and aligned with the existing systems.
Guiding Principles for the Design
- Flexibility for the Future
- Student-Centered
- Comfort and Wellness
- STEM-Focused Design
- Low-Energy operations
- Incredibly Efficient
- Safety and Security
- A Sustainable Future