Despite facing significant obstacles, including a flood-prone location and limitations on modifying existing structures, the district persevered, eventually resulting in a groundbreaking new building addition that redefined the school’s entrance and functionality.
Perhaps the most striking aspect of the project was the innovative solutions devised to overcome obstacles. Unexpected challenges, such as building atop a Core of Engineers’ creek, not only delayed the project but also added costs. However, in the long run, these challenges led to the creation of an exceptional new front entrance, breathing fresh life into the campus. The renovation also included thoughtful modifications to the original 1960s structure, maximizing functionality while preserving historical elements.
Close collaboration between the district and the community helped mitigate concerns, with proactive measures taken to address issues such as construction traffic and stormwater runoff. Ultimately, the project’s impact on the district and community was profound, addressing long-standing flooding issues, elevating the school’s STEM program to new heights, and creating a state-of-the-art learning environment that stands as a crown jewel among the district’s high schools.
- School Spirit Store
- High Bay Physics Lab
- Welcome Center
- Secured outdoor patio
The project at New Berlin's Junior/Senior High School will provide modern facilities for all grade levels in the district to learn and grow. The additions and renovations aim to reorganize and enhance core educational spaces, creating a clear sense of place for both junior high and senior high school students. While different grade levels will have age-appropriate spaces, shared areas will be centrally located for easy access.
Despite challenges such as rocky terrain and limited usable acreage, the district proceeded, with the new school designed to replace an aging building, which would be repurposed for early childhood education and storage.
With the implementation of a county-wide sales tax that provided additional funds to public schools across the region, the Mt. Zion School board wanted to invest funds into facilities that bolstered the community's small town traditions. The new athletics field house and auditorium within Mt. Zion High School provide ample space for a myriad of academic and civic events.