Mullendore Elementary was built around a simple idea – let the way students learn shape the school around them. That idea can be seen throughout the campus, from spaces made for collaboration to places for experimenting, creating and exploring. 

And now, it’s earning statewide recognition.

Mullendore will be featured in the Texas Association of School Administrators and Texas Association of School Boards (TASA/TASB) 2026-27 Exhibit of School Architecture and has received a Star of Distinction in Design, recognizing the thoughtful approach behind Birdville ISD’s first Elementary Preparatory STEM Academy.

Mullendore is one of just 33 projects from across Texas selected for this year’s Exhibit of School Architecture. A 12-member jury of school board members, administrators and representatives from the Association for Learning Environments Southern Region evaluated projects, awarding only 69 Stars of Distinction across six areas: design, value, wellness, community, planning and transformation.

“Mullendore was designed to be more than a beautiful building – it was designed to be a place where children feel welcomed, inspired and excited to learn,” said Dr. Gayle Stinson, Superintendent of Schools. “This recognition is a true reflection of the thought and care that went into creating a STEM-focused environment that our students, staff and community can be proud to call their own.”

The 101,837-square-foot school was designed by VLK Architects and built on the site of the original Mullendore Elementary, which opened in 1955. The replacement campus was made possible by Birdville ISD voters through the 2022 Bond and opened its doors to students in August 2025.

But the goal was never simply to replace an aging building.

As Birdville ISD’s first Preparatory STEM Academy, Mullendore was created around the learning that would happen inside it. Makerspaces, project-based science labs, outdoor learning areas and collaborative spaces give students opportunities to create, experiment and solve problems throughout the school day.

The campus design draws inspiration from the idea of gathering around a campfire, pairing natural materials and textures with elements inspired by trees, tents and campfires. Open spaces throughout the school extend learning beyond the traditional classroom while creating places for students to gather, work together and explore.

That approach reflects Mullendore’s larger purpose. The Preparatory STEM Academy provides students in Pre-K through fifth grade with an early foundation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics through hands-on, project-based learning and opportunities to develop STEM fluency and career awareness.

The new campus also carries forward a legacy that began more than 70 years ago.

Mullendore Elementary is named for Alliene Mullendore, a longtime BISD educator who went on to serve the district as a teacher, assistant principal, principal and the first woman elected to the Birdville ISD Board of Trustees.

The 2026-27 TASA/TASB Exhibit of School Architecture will showcase Mullendore and the other award-winning projects during txEDCON 2026, the TASA/TASB Convention, Oct. 9-10 in Houston.