Constructed in 1927-28 to serve Mexican-American children in the Pharr-San Juan school district, this school replaced an earlier facility at this site. The new school was named in honor of educator Helen W. Buell (1861-1949), principal of the Pharr Mexican Ward School from 1924 to 1932. Designed by noted San Antonio architect Harvey Smith, the building's entry features modest Classical Revival detailing in its roof line scrollwork and bas-relief medallion over the entry. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1990