The new Santa Fe Trail Middle School marks the third evolution of Olathe’s latest middle school model, originally introduced with the district’s ninth middle school, Mission Trail. This reimagined design features a two-story educational wing that brings energy and visibility to the classroom “neighborhoods”—learning pods that were previously underutilized in earlier iterations.

Key updates include reactivated corridors and a redefined media center designed with flexibility at its core. The enhanced pod layout now includes a larger, shared collaboration space that supports engagement among small- and medium-sized groups within each grade-level community.

As the first school in the district to be rebuilt on its original site, the new Santa Fe Trail honors its legacy by incorporating materials from the former building. Notably, the learning stair was constructed using wood slats salvaged from the original gym floor. The exterior features a modern palette of soft-toned brick complemented by silver and red metal panels.

The primary goal of this project was to strengthen the district’s evolving design concepts while expanding access to versatile, collaborative spaces throughout the school. Above all, the mission remains clear: to provide equitable opportunities for every student.

Through our co-creation process, Hollis + Miller partnered with students, staff, parents, and the broader community to ensure the new school reflects what matters most to those who will use it every day.