The East Cooper Center for Advanced Studies bridges the gap between high school and college, providing technical skills and training beyond the high school level. This new career and technical school is located on a 5-acre tract in front of the existing Wando High School campus, allowing both schools to share parking and transportation infrastructure. 

The 3-story 125,000 SF academic building is primarily a vocational facility accommodating 600 students. The academy features administration areas, science and computer labs, abundant classroom spaces for programs in cosmetology, biomedical science, film, multi-media and visual arts, childcare, health science engineering, horticulture, public safety, and EMS technology. Additional facilities include a 6,100 SF automotive technology building, a greenhouse, and an equipment storage building.

This project is designed to LEED® Silver specifications, and features daylighting strategies, a high-efficiency mechanical system, a cistern for collecting rainwater, and a rooftop teaching garden. Other sustainable strategies include low flow plumbing fixtures, bike racks and showers, and assigned parking spaces for fuel-efficient vehicles.