During the design phase, HMK utilized their standard two estimate process. The cost information provided indicated that a more prudent way to utilize the bond dollars would be a complete demolition of the existing school and rebuild with a new, energy efficient structure. After further consideration, including the use of added money from Bond Premium, the District moved to build Oak Grove as it is today.

Oak Grove Elementary School is a new, state of the art, energy efficient, 2-story building that has 20 classrooms and is designed to serve 500 students from the North Albany area. The building is set in a pastural setting just outside of the City of Albany in rural Benton County. This site has been home to elementary schools since the late 1800’s. Creating a building that honored the surrounding natural areas was important. Details such as the dormer roof style, ample landscaping, and walls of widows bring both a subtle nod to the rural surroundings as well as showcase nature inside and out.

The lack of professional gathering and learning spaces for adults was a major challenge within the district. Addressing this issue was one of the goals for the overall bond program. Oak Grove is a great example of flexible-use gathering spaces. The Media Center, Gym, and Cafeteria are large group gathering and presentation areas while the Music Room and all classrooms can be smaller group presentation areas. Each space is outfitted with presentation stations such as interactive tv’s or large projectors and screens and include voice lift technology for clear communication. These spaces will serve district educators and the overall community for generations to come by enabling people to come together for learning and growing through their thoughtful design.