The building was designed to replace several small, aging elementary schools with one larger facility that accommodates small learning communities and future education changes through its unique modular design. There are three 200-student learning communities and one hybrid community combining early childhood and district-wide special education programs. Each standard community is designed to accommodate 200 students and be subdivided into two 100-student neighborhoods. The four neighborhoods all share a common-size module to accommodate future use and expansion throughout the district.
How do we re-imagine this building with traditional school spaces to accommodate large populations and serve as a headquarters to the district's entire child services efficiently?
Traditional school spaces such as the library, cafeteria, stage, and lobby, had to be re-imagined to maximize their potential. This challenge was met by arranging three of the small learning community modules, as well as a unique module housing Kindergarten. Emotional, physical, and behavior development programs connect through a large 2-story flex studio.
- Student learning communities
- Early Childhood and Special Education learning communities
- Flexible Spaces
Asymmetric layout and playful ceiling fixtures add a vibrancy to students' usually-repetitive flow between classes.
The use of vibrant color-coating throughout the space creates an imaginative environment, and viscerally aides students as a way-finding tool.
Wide hallways with integrated accessibility ramps provide continuous, unimpeded stress-reducing traffic flow.
The district first partnered with BLDD in 2010 to develop a comprehensive facilities assessment and improvement strategy that addressed both immediate challenges and long-term aspirations. This partnership came at a crucial time as the district implemented its “Righting the Ship” initiative, a strategic plan designed to ensure fiscal stability while maintaining educational excellence.
A new athletics facility at field level was the final addition to the thriving athletics program at Wabash CUSD #348. New locker rooms, concession area, meeting and training rooms and updated parking and accessibility are key features of the project.
Through a $100 million bond referendum, the Edwardsville School District can provide 21st century learning environments throughout their facilities.