A child’s formal educational journey blossoms in a space that inspires excitement, wonder, fear, curiosity, and joy. DLR Group’s design for the new Ledges Elementary School encompasses these traits, while focusing on the criteria established by key stakeholder groups and the facility planning team. The building organization centers around grade-level neighborhoods that have a direct connection to shared learning zones. This light filled discovery space provides students with access to small group spaces and customizable learning settings to meet the needs of various learning and teaching styles. These ideas reinforce collaboration within classroom neighborhoods and promote a sense of student and staff community in the school. The building layout uses views to the exterior as a form of wayfinding and draws occupants to moments of reflection inspired by the natural landscape.

The 80,000 SF elementary school serves three grade levels—pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and first grade with the capacity for 450 students. The media center, STEAM lab, and art room provide a visual anchor along the circulation path. The classroom neighborhoods and common spaces reflect a reimagined and abstracted version of the elements found within Ledges State Park. The placement of school pride graphics, colors, carpet tiles, lighting, woods and metals will further enhance the school character. Play areas consist of hard surface, soft surface with playground equipment, and a grass play field. For ease of access and supervision, the site arranges these items together.

Design: DLR Group
Photography: Michael Robinson