THORNTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Education | Spring 2023 |

Myrtle Thornton Elementary has served the Arlington, Texas, community since its establishment in 1956. Thornton Elementary is currently being demolished and rebuilt through funding from the 2019 Bond. Part of the East Arlington Master plan is to modernize schools and give students optimal 21st-century education. Although the original building is gone, the mature live Oak trees will continue to welcome students for generations to come. Thornton currently serves a diverse community with the school’s minority student enrollment at 96.2%. The school also enrolls 91% of economically disadvantaged students. It is important to preserve their decades-old spirit and multiculturalism love. Thornton will accommodate and support all students based on current and future programs and align with the pedagogical strategies of Arlington Independent School District.

The overall concept for the project is to highlight social and emotional well-being while creating a place that embodies an inclusive learning environment. Using evidence-based design, creating dynamic spaces of discovery, engagement, and collaboration that reflect the district’s goals and values. At its core, the design follows four guiding principles: Design for Well-being, Pedagogical Design, Inclusion and Equity, and Biophilic Design