Eisenhower High School

Decatur PSD #61 | Decatur, Illinois
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At 50 years old, the Eisenhower High School for the Decatur Public School District was physically worn, and functionally ineffective. The school district conducted a community engagement planning process to determine how best to meet the current and future educational aspirations of the community.

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The Challenge

How do we renovate a dated, physically worn, and functionally ineffective facility to develop an environment that supports student achievement and engages students in their learning?

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The Solution

The school district conducted a community engagement planning process to determine how best to meet the current and future educational aspirations of the community.

Through this, 100% of the existing building was remodeled, and approximately 10% of additional program space was added to complete the transformation. New program spaces such as a recording studio, media bars, and fitness and wellness areas were added, which naturally engage students.

Features
  • Award of Distinction, Exhibition of Educational Environments: IASB/IASA/IASBO 2014 Conference
  • Small group spaces
  • Active learning space

"It was very important to the families and community members of the District that the renovated facilities demonstrate a collegiate atmoshpere where students could participate in collaborative learning activites. Our high school renovations exceeded the expectation of our students, staff, and community."

- Lisa M. Taylor, Former Superintendent​, Decautr Public School District 61