DeSoto Schools' Grace House

YWA was commissioned by the DeSoto Parish School Board to design a permanent facility for its alternative education program, replacing a patchwork of aging portables and a deteriorated gymnasium. Located on a newly acquired site, the 18,000 SF building is organized to support a variety of learning modalities and student needs.
The program includes seven general classrooms, a computer lab, a multipurpose room, administrative offices, and support spaces. An open-air pavilion extends learning and gathering opportunities outdoors, while the overall site design emphasizes accessibility, safety, and future growth. Durable materials and a straightforward layout reflect the school’s commitment to stability and structure, while still offering flexibility and light-filled interiors that foster a positive learning environment.