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.
Unsure of whether to remodel their historic middle school, build new on the existing site near their current high school, or build new on a different site, the Maroa-Forsyth School District reached out to get community input via BLDD's community engagement process.
The new Knoxville K-8 campus is more than a building replacement project—it's the creation of a unified educational environment that reflects the pride and identity of the Knoxville community. Guided by the district theme of "We Are Knoxville", the design thoughtfully combines a repurposed existing facility with new construction, creating one cohesive and compelling campus experience.
In 2021, voters approved a $35 million dollar referendum, called, “Safe Schools, Safe Kids.” Bierbaum required building additions and interior modifications to accommodate their increasing enrollment, and enhance safety and security measures.