Godley ISD’s The WILD has earned four Stars of Distinction in the 2026-27 Exhibit of School Architecture, recognizing the facility’s design and its role in supporting student learning and community connections.

The Texas Association of School Administrators and Texas Association of School Boards announced the awards on September 29, 2026. Designed by Huckabee, a MOREgroup brand, The WILD received distinctions in design, value, community and planning.

“While we are honored to receive four Stars of Distinction, we are most proud of the recognition for value,” said Godley ISD Superintendent Dr. Rich Dear. “Through intentional planning and innovative design, we saved local taxpayers nearly $55 million by creating flexible learning spaces that serve multiple purposes.”

The annual program, presented in collaboration with the Association for Learning Environments Southern Region Foundation, recognizes excellence in the planning and design of new and renovated educational facilities across Texas. A jury of school board members, administrators and learning environment professionals evaluates the projects.

The WILD — short for Wildcat Innovative Learning Destination — opened to students in April 2024. The four-story career and technical education center at Godley High School houses more than 40 classrooms, labs, collaboration spaces and student-run enterprises.

The facility brings career exploration to life through learning spaces that reflect professional settings. Students gain practical experience in fields including agriculture, health science, education, entrepreneurship, digital communications, graphic design, information technology and drone operations. These experiences help students connect classroom instruction with opportunities after graduation.

Student-run enterprises also connect learning with service. At Shop The WILD, entrepreneurship students gain experience in marketing, sales, inventory and product creation while offering Wildcat apparel and spirit items. Wild Blooms gives floral design students opportunities to create arrangements for holidays and special occasions.

Through iLead, students gain hands-on information technology experience while working with the district’s technology department to support students and staff. Tasks involving computer setup, troubleshooting, maintenance and repair help students apply technical skills to real workplace needs.

“The WILD was designed to give our students meaningful opportunities to explore their interests, build confidence and prepare for their futures,” Dear said. “This recognition reflects the thoughtful planning behind a facility where students can put their learning into practice while building connections with our community.”

Through hands-on projects, industry-based certifications, internships and leadership opportunities, The WILD supports student readiness, a cornerstone of Godley ISD’s Community-Based Accountability System. Students develop technical knowledge alongside communication, collaboration, problem-solving and professional skills that prepare them for college, careers, military service and the workforce.

The 2026-27 architecture awards recognized 33 projects representing 29 school districts, two colleges and one early childhood program. The projects will be exhibited October 9-10, 2026, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston during the TASA/TASB Convention.

Learn more about The WILD at www.godleyisd.net/thewild.