Empowering Women in Education

July 3, 2024

In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, we feature special guest host Clarissa Darbone and guest speaker Merri Salazar, a project manager at Pfluger Architects. This episode delves into the fascinating world of K-12 education design, highlighting the importance of being student-centered and the power of community engagement.

Merri brings a wealth of experience working in K-12 education and shares her insights on the significance of understanding the unique needs of each district. She emphasizes that the heart of her job is designing spaces that not only support but also elevate the goals of each community.

Merri passionately discusses the value of community engagement in creating successful school projects. She shares that the projects which turn out the best are those that actively seek and incorporate community input.

Takeaways

• K-12 education design is focused on being student-centered and meeting the unique needs of each district.
• Understanding the goals and priorities of the community is crucial in creating successful school projects.
• Engaging with the community and gathering input helps ensure that school designs align with their needs and desires.
• Budget constraints can be a challenge in school projects, but creative solutions and partnerships can help overcome them.
• The mission and purpose of an architecture firm play a significant role in guiding their work and creating meaningful experiences for students.

Merri is a detail-conscious project manager who works with project teams to ensure every unique goal and objective is met. For over five years, she has been an essential part of the Pfluger team in Houston.

Her ability to visualize and communicate ideas promotes a better understanding of design intent and enhances collaboration with the client, design team, and contractor. Merri is passionate about creating spaces that uplift and inspire, making every project a meaningful experience for its users.

Sound Bites to Ponder:
"Every district has a different story. I like how they talk and listen to their communities."
"The projects that turn out the best are the ones that go out and figure out what the community really wants."

Follow Merri Salazar on Social Media:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/merri-salazar-4948b544/
Website: www.faainc.com/