Jackson Creek Elementary SchoolColumbia, SC This new school was needed to serve students located in a densely populated area of the District and sites were limited. Committed to creating a community school, the District purchased a 26-acre site with wetlands which had limited buildable area resulting in a compact, 2-story footprint to accommodate the program. The grade levels are grouped into “neighborhoods” with five to six classrooms opening to a central learning hub with shared collaboration space for small group projects. The exterior colors recall the bright colors of flags from around the world. The main entry tower creates a playful kaleidoscope effect that changes throughout the day and creates a beacon for the community at night.