Vaughn Middle School

The first of many 2023 Facilities Modernization Plan capital renewal projects for Washoe County School District, Vaughn Middle School revitalizes a 75-year-old campus, transforming it into a contemporary learning environment. Reimagined murals, preserved elements from the original campus, and thoughtful references to E. Otis Vaughn create meaningful connections between the school’s history and its future.

Working closely with district leadership and staff, TSK explored more than a dozen design solutions to work within a compact site while maintaining active school operations. The final design introduces three stories of educational space, including a library, maker space, culinary arts classroom, and STEM labs designed to support evolving district programs. The campus was also reoriented to create a new west-facing entrance while maintaining circulation for buses, parent drop-off, and daily campus operations.

Vaughn houses the district’s only middle school Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing program, with dedicated classroom environments and enhanced acoustical treatments. Designed to meet the needs of more students, Vaughn creates an engaging learning environment for generations to come.