Traditional two-story school designs proved costly, prompting HMK Company to suggest factory-built classrooms, which promised significant cost savings of approximately $100 per square foot. This solution enabled the community to support a $17.9 million bond measure in May 2019.

HMK and Soderstrom Architects oversaw the extensive process of cost assessments and design work, resulting in over 50,000 square feet of educational space. The project involved demolishing the old classrooms and constructing three new classroom buildings, a student commons, science labs, culinary science classrooms, a new auxiliary gymnasium, and campus reconfiguration for enhanced safety.

Additionally, the elementary school saw renovations, including the conversion of a covered play area into a commons and cafeteria utilizing Mass Plywood Panel (MPP) construction. The savings realized by this innovative approach allowed for the transformation of the learning environment to align with community values. The adverse building conditions of the old facility such as moisture, poor ventilation, structural deterioration, and tired interior finishes were addressed by this new community focal point, which has significantly improved the student learning experience.

The gymnasium was a highlight of the bond program, offering space for PE and sports practice for 300 students. It features a full-sized competition court with retractable bleachers, team rooms, and an aesthetically pleasing design using Freres Lumber’s MPP to incorporate wood elements, reflecting the community’s timber industry heritage.