A generous arrival courtyard forms the heart of the campus, acting as a physical and symbolic gateway representing hope and opportunity. The Academy’s design uses the natural site slope to create an efficient split-level layout that organizes academic, administrative, and support spaces. The first floor contains the middle school wing and a combined storm shelter/practice gym, while the second floor houses high school classrooms, administration, and the cafeteria. At the upper level, the media center overlooks Lake Ray Hubbard and connects to both the non-traditional high school and the Professional Development Center, with adjacent outdoor learning areas extending instruction into the landscape.

Within the Manuel & Maria Valle Student Services Center, the centrally placed Professional Development Center (PDC) offers intuitive access from both stairwells and a covered terrace linking visually to the Academy. Serving Student Services staff and district educators, the PDC fosters collaboration and professional growth.

To ensure a welcoming experience, the campus uses intuitive, non-text-based wayfinding—color, symbols, and architectural landmarks that support navigation across language barriers. A refreshed red-and-gold palette blends district identity with Academy branding. Together, the new Memorial Pathway Academy and Student Services Center embody Garland ISD’s mission to create learning environments that inspire, empower, and cultivate belonging for every student and educator.