By Lindsey Coulter��

PHOENIX — Arizona State University (ASU) recently announced plans for an estimated 200,000-square-foot building in Phoenix that will serve as ASU Health’s new headquarters. The multistory School of Medicine and Advanced Medical Engineering facility, designed by CO Architects in collaboration with DFDG Architecture and being constructed by McCarthy Building Companies, will join the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix and several biotech research companies at the downtown Phoenix Bioscience Core.��

“This endeavor is more than a building, and this is much more than a medical school,” said ASU President Michael Crow, in a statement. “This will be the headquarters of ASU Health, a new hub of innovation, teaching and learning to enhance health outcomes for the people of Arizona.”��

The project is one of several within the city’s Bioscience Core��designed by CO Architects. The firm is responsible for two of the precinct’s early buildings for University of Arizona’s health sciences and biomedical research programs. “We’re leveraging our vast experience in Arizona, and in Phoenix specifically, for the new ASU Health facility,” said Jenna Knudsen, FAIA, Managing Principal of CO Architects, in a statement.��

DFDG Architecture also recently collaborated on the ASU Health Futures Building and the adjacent Mayo Clinic Integrated Education & Research Building to integrate medical research and educational training in North Phoenix. “That momentum will carry over to this project, the latest addition to greater Phoenix’s health-sciences construction boom,” said DFDG President Darrin Orndorff, AIA, in a statement.��

In addition to housing ASU’s first-ever Phoenix medical school offering MD degrees and hosting select existing programs from the Health Solutions and Nursing schools, the building will include space for ASU’s clinical affiliate,��. The new facility will also accommodate two new programs, expanding ASU Health’s multi-discipline curricula. The School of Medicine and Advanced Medical Engineering will teach future physicians how to improve patient care by blending medicine, engineering, technology and humanities. ASU Health’s new School of Technology for Public Health will focus on the integration of digital technology and data-driven decisions, aiming to improve local public health.��

Facility features are projected to include virtual anatomy and clinical-skills laboratories, exam rooms, classrooms, study spaces, administrative offices, and a simulation center with mock operating and emergency rooms. Further, the new ASU Health headquarters will offer community-facing programs so that members of the public can interface with technology-enabled information on health-related issues such as immunizations.����

“ASU’s forward-thinking approach to preparing future medical and health service professionals and advancing community health education is plainly demonstrated by this progressive project,” said Carlos Diaz, Vice President of Operations at McCarthy Building Companies, in a statement. “We are eager to bring together our national expertise in simulation lab construction and our local team’s demonstrated competence on complex worksites to collaborate with these exceptional design partners and support ASU’s vision.”��

The ASU Health School of Medicine and Advanced Medical Engineering building is designed to help address workforce shortages while improving public health outcomes in Phoenix and beyond. Preliminary sitework is set to begin this fall, with construction starting in early 2026. ASU Health will begin accepting student applications later this year and plans to commence classes in the new building in fall 2028.��

The project team also includes Meyer Borgman Johnson (structural engineering), Spectrum Engineers (MEP engineering), Dibble Engineers (civil engineering), TrueForm Landscape Architecture Studio (landscape architecture), Bowman Fire & Life Safety (safety consultant), WSP USA Buildings (sustainability consultant) and NV5 (AV/IT/security consultant).��

The post Arizona State University Plan New School of Medicine and Advanced Medical Engineering appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.

The post Arizona State University Plan New School of Medicine and Advanced Medical Engineering appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.

By Lindsey Coulter��

At a Glance: Metro Tech High School Renovation ��

• Scope and Timeline: Multi-phased modernization project including 150,000+ square feet of renovations and a new 22,500-square-foot competition gymnasium, set for completion before the 2027–2028 school year.��
• Design and Construction Team: Led by DLR Group (design) and McCarthy Building Companies Inc. (construction), with input from students, district leaders, and local industry experts.��
• Career and Technical Education Focus: Modernized facilities for 20 CTE programs, including nursing, cosmetology, floral design, and childcare, designed to support real-world training and future career readiness.��
• Campus Enhancements: New sports fields, theater space, administrative offices, crosswalks, paved walkways, and infrastructure upgrades including cooling towers and underground mechanical systems.��
• Student Involvement: Active learning opportunities during construction through PXU’s ACE Mentorship and CTE programs, with tours and hands-on experiences integrated into the renovation process.��

PHOENIX — Construction is underway at Metro Tech High School as the Phoenix Union High School District (PXU) embarks on a comprehensive, multi-phased renovation and expansion aimed at redefining career and technical education (CTE) in Arizona.��

Designed by DLR Group and built by McCarthy Building Companies Inc., the transformation will enhance all 20 of Metro Tech’s CTE programs with cutting-edge facilities, new construction and more than 150,000 square feet of renovations. A new 22,500-square-foot competition gymnasium, upgraded sports fields, and a complete reimagining of the campus layout are central components of the overhaul, scheduled for completion before the 2027-2028 school year.��

“We are extremely excited for the future of Metro Tech High School,” said PXU Superintendent Thea Andrade in a statement. “With the overwhelming public support behind our bond funding this project, we will offer the next generation of PXU students the best possible educational experience.”��

DLR Group’s campus design emphasizes student experience and accessibility, with a focus on pedestrian-friendly improvements such as new crosswalks and paved pathways. The design also incorporates adaptive reuse principles, preserving historical elements of the original West High School campus, which dates back to 1947.��

“This renovation shifts what’s possible for our students in real, tangible ways,” said Metro Tech Principal Shawna Wright in a statement. “We’re not just updating walls and equipment; we’re building collaborative spaces that will give students the skills they need to exceed in jobs we have not even imagined yet.”��

The campus-wide modernization includes targeted updates to key CTE program spaces, such as floral design, nursing assisting, cosmetology and childcare. These updated environments will be designed to meet program-specific needs and technological requirements. A new campus entrance will also welcome students and visitors with upgraded administrative offices and room for future expansion.��

Additional features of the project include a new white box theater for school and community events, new baseball, soccer, and softball fields, and enhanced infrastructure including additional parking, expanded bus stalls, new cooling towers and a full overhaul of the underground mechanical piping system.��

“This project is about more than construction – it’s about building once-in-a-lifetime learning opportunities for students on this campus,” said McCarthy Project Director Tyler Shupe in a statement. “We’re proud to create a campus that reflects the ambition and skill of Metro Tech’s students, bringing them alongside us through the process. Phoenix Union’s incredible commitment to training and developing the next generation of skilled trade workers, medical professionals and other vital careers is clear from the transformative vision of this project.”��

As part of that vision, students from Metro Tech and other PXU schools will be actively engaged in the construction process. McCarthy will provide real-world learning experiences through site tours and mentorship opportunities aligned with Metro Tech’s ACE (Architecture, Construction, Engineering) Mentorship program and CTE coursework in construction and electrical trades.��

“Metro Tech High School has been a cornerstone of the Phoenix community for years and we are excited to work with PXU and MT leaders to develop a design that will expand educational opportunities for students and show the community the amazing programs they provide,” said David Schmidt, principal and architect with DLR Group, in a statement.��

Serving more than 1,800 students on a 35-acre campus, Metro Tech is one of 23 schools in PXU, one of the largest high school districts in the U.S. The renovation continues a century-long collaboration between PXU and DLR Group.��

The post Metro Tech High School Undergoes Major Modernization to Elevate CTE Education appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.

The post Metro Tech High School Undergoes Major Modernization to Elevate CTE Education appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.

PHOENIX—The new Sierra Linda Performing Arts Center, a 24,000-square-foot facility located at Sierra Linda High School in Phoenix, is now complete.

As part of the Tolleson Union High School District, the $10.5 million center was designed for maximum functionality for students, educators, and audience members, accommodating more than 600 people. To serve area arts education programs and the broader community, the center is being used as a hands-on teaching space for the Sierra Linda High School’s performing arts/fine arts programs and is acoustically balanced for both amplified sound and live performances. Funding for the project was provided by school bond dollars.

The stage includes state-of-the-art LED lighting with automatic stage rigging and controls. The back of the house includes a dance classroom, a multi-purpose classroom for guitar, mariachi and piano lessons, as well as associated restrooms and make-up rooms. The design scheme utilizes mountains on the walls and a color palette that complements Sierra Linda’s school colors of navy and maroon.

“We are absolutely thrilled that our Sierra Linda students will finally have a state-of-the-art performing arts center to showcase their talents,” said Tolleson Union High School District Superintendent Nora Gutierrez, in a statement.

“It is long overdue. This community deserves a beautiful facility such as this one. The performing arts center is one that will serve the community for many years to come. We can’t wait for the wonderful performances and events that will take place in this wonderful facility.

McCarthy Building Companies was the general contractor on this impressive project that took nine months to complete. ADM Group served as the project architect.

“This project illustrates that creative design and construction solutions combined with smart budgeting can elevate a school theater beyond status quo to a professional quality theater for the entire community to enjoy,” said Mike Horn, project director for McCarthy’s Education Services team.

ADM Group completed the original high school campus design in 2010, which included plans for a future performing arts center.

“Our team is proud to have designed a premier performance arts venue that will elevate the rich, cultural fabric at Sierra Linda High School,” said Nina Sheriff, principal/director of Design with ADM Group, in a statement.

“To pay homage to a nearby historic canal, the landscape design features a levee with river rocks that flow to and from the theater’s entrance. To reflect the name of the school, ‘beautiful mountains’, the side walls of the auditorium were constructed in the shape of mountains with lighting to glow like the sunset. The long-awaited performing arts center honors the community’s roots and gives students a modern, high-tech space to showcase their talents.”

The post Performing Arts Center Debuts at Arizona High School appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.

The post Performing Arts Center Debuts at Arizona High School appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.

PHOENIX — Creighton University has reached an agreement on the construction of a new, nearly $100 million health sciences campus at Park Central in midtown Phoenix, a significant expansion of the university’s current presence in the state.

The project will be broken into two phases, with phase one to include a new 200,000-square-foot building that will eventually house nearly 800 Creighton health sciences students in Arizona.

The expansion will include a four-year medical school, nursing school, occupational and physical therapy schools, pharmacy school, physician assistant school and emergency medical services program. A second building adjacent to the first may be added in the future.

The new building will be located along Central Avenue on the Park Central property, on land that is currently a parking lot. Construction on the new building will begin in spring 2019, the first on the Park Central site in decades, and is expected to be completed in spring 2021.

Creighton’s new Phoenix campus will meet the University’s current needs while providing ample room for expansion in the future, and the central Phoenix location makes it convenient for students doing their residencies and other studies at nearby hospitals.

“Creighton University is preparing for an exciting new era in Phoenix, one that combines our tradition for educational excellence in the health sciences with our distinctive Jesuit, Catholic mission,” said the Rev. Daniel S. Hendrickson, SJ, PhD, president of Creighton University. “Creighton University has strong connections to the Arizona medical community, and we look forward to expanding our impact by educating many more exceptionally qualified health care professionals to serve the community moving forward.”

The new Creighton University facility is also a significant boost for the revitalization of Park Central. Sharon Harper, president & CEO of Plaza Companies that is redeveloping Park Central in partnership with Holualoa Companies, said Creighton is an ideal fit for the project.

“The new Park Central will have a focus not only on the creation of world-class office, retail and public spaces, but also on a commitment to health and innovation,” said Harper. “Creighton University’s commitment to innovating in health care education makes it a great partner, and we couldn’t be more pleased to have them join the Park Central family.”

The post Creighton University Building Spacious Health Sciences Campus appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.

The post Creighton University Building Spacious Health Sciences Campus appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.

PHOENIX — Hundreds of schools across Arizona continued closure May 1 as educators and their supporters marked their fourth day of a statewide walkout, demanding teacher raises and restoring necessary school funding back to pre-recession rates.

Sparked from nationwide demonstrations, the walkout began late April with nearly 110 districts and charter schools comprised of 852,000 students closed, making it the largest teacher walkout in recent U.S. history. More than 50,000 educators, parents, students and supporters��filled the streets of downtown Phoenix later convening at the Capitol to voice their demands.

According to the Arizona Educators United (AEU), a coalition of Arizonan teachers and educational professionals, asked for a 20 percent pay raise for teachers by next school year and annual raises after that until teacher salaries reach the national average. Leaders of AEU said they would end the walkout if the state legislature approved a budget. However, the budget fell short of what AEU originally demanded.

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey and Republican leaders in the legislature offered a deal May 1, announcing that they were giving a 20 percent pay increase to teachers without raising taxes. The proposal also includes making the first payment toward restoring nearly $400 million slashed from school building and maintenance budgets following the 2008 recession. This, however, did not satisfy the teacher’s demands for improved education funding, contending that the proposal would not be viable without tax measures.

Teachers of Statewide Walkout Take Matters into Their Own Hands

The teachers continued their protest even when the legislature was released while grassroots groups filed��, bypassing lawmakers and going straight to the voters for education funding. The initiative, if included in the November ballot, would plan to increase income tax on wealthier Arizonans to support education funding.

AEU leaders told the media that they didn’t get everything they wanted but promised to keep fighting. “They are only going so far. They will not restore the $1.5 billion the AEU wanted,” said Noah Karvelis, a teacher and AEU organizer, at the news conference. “The war is not over, but we’ve won an important battle to move the legislature this far.”

Schools anticipate to open May 3 as teachers participating in the walkout say they will return to school if the governor passes the budget proposal.

The post Arizona Educators Stage Statewide Walkout, Demand School Funding appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.

The post Arizona Educators Stage Statewide Walkout, Demand School Funding appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.

The post Barbara Goebel appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.

The post Barbara Goebel appeared first on �Ӱ�ԭ��ҕ�l.