This new 137,000 SF middle school replaces an aging 1950’s facility, relocating the school to a campus with the potential to transform the educational delivery process for its students. The new campus consolidates multiple educational functions including an adjacent high school, library, and future Career Center. The learning spaces are based on a “neighborhood” concept, with dedicated spaces for each grade level and shared common spaces. The two-story building accommodates 900 students (with the capacity for future expansion to 1,200) with one neighborhood on the lower floor and two on the upper floor. Separate stairwells serve each of the second-story neighborhoods to minimize overlap and disruptions during class changes.

The constrained site required careful design to accommodate wetlands, existing trees, and steep topography. The building is oriented so that most classrooms have a desirable north or south exposure; the materials palette (brick exterior and a durable, easy-to-maintain interior) is economical while providing a welcoming facility for the students.