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The OC Receives Highest Honor in School Architecture Competition

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Kelly Juntunen

Forney ISD’s Keith Bell Opportunity Central, designed by Huckabee, was selected as a Caudill Award winner in the 2024-2025 Exhibit of School Architecture competition facilitated by the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) and Texas Association of School Boards (TASB).

The Caudill Award showcases new and renovated Texas schools and celebrates excellence in planning and design in the learning environment. The winning projects received at least four stars from six areas of distinction, making them eligible for the Caudill Award, which is named after Texas architect William Wayne Caudill (1914–1983), whose progressive concepts continue to influence school design.

“This concept is one-of-a-kind and designed to change the way we think about education,” Superintendent Dr. Justin Terry said. “We are so blessed to have incredible partners in our architects at Huckabee and in Gallagher construction that made the vision of the OC a reality.”

The OC brings 15 years of vision to life by merging career development, college preparation, and community engagement into one education facility, transforming the 21st-century paradigm for what a high school can be.

The career, college and community center operates seven days a week to accommodate businesses, community events and entertainment. The OC provides career-focused programs, college courses, and a variety of businesses and eateries open to the community for high school students to gain real-world experiences and employment opportunities. The OC includes a 600-seat theater, a 7,500-seat arena space for tournaments, concerts and events, and so much more.  

"Forney ISD offers innovative learning opportunities to inspire students as leaders, thinkers, and creators, preparing them to shape a brighter future for our state," School Board President Greg Pharris said. “The OC helps us achieve our goals and we are so proud that this design has garnered statewide recognition.”

For more information contact the Forney ISD Communication Department at (469) 762-4100.