The addition provides a new secured entry and building administration area to create a secure campus. Also included is a new properly sized cafeteria commons and competition junior high gym with seating for 500. Additional classroom space and a new flexible STEM lab with equipment and overhead door allow for large-scale art and science projects. The addition also serves as a connecting corridor, minimizing students need to leave the secured facility during a typical school day.
How can we bring modern-day security and space for the growing school population to an aging facility?
Along with major renovations, a connecting addition to the original 1929 three-story HS building and the 1963 cafeteria and gymnasium building was designed to create a more secure campus and provide more space to accommodate the school population.
Site circulation was majorly improved with a new central drop off lane for both bus and car traffic in front of the existing 1929 building creating a much safer site.
A rebuilt stair creates a welcome invitation to the historical building.
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.
Completed in 2022, the 11,519 s.f. gymnasium replacement consisted of all new flooring and paint work, bleachers, new basketball equipment, dedicated locker rooms, and new bathrooms. Environmental branding was added to the space, featuring the school colors throughout, as well as the school logo on the exterior of the building. Renovations were also done to the lobby, adding in environmental branding and creating a welcoming space for students, staff, and the community.
Through renovations and an addition to a 1950s-era building on a tight city footprint, an engaging, innovative and inviting high school, focused on providing modern facilities to support digital learning, academic achievement and fine arts and athletic excellence was developed. While the student population was highly achieving, the existing school did not reflect the student merit.