To modernize this school, our first design task was to relocate the administrative and counseling offices to a prominent access and control point and create an easily identifiable entrance for the entire school community. As a result, the original office location could be converted to a new special education suite with classrooms, conference, and therapy rooms to support this district-wide program with more adequate space.

The original building entry and administration wing faced a road that was abandoned by the city, forcing all public access to relocate to a side entry. This resulted in poor observation sight lines, both for school security and public wayfinding.

H+A proposed converting three standard classrooms that were ideally located facing the new entry into a new public lobby, administrative, and counseling office area. This included the design of an accessible ramp that brings all public visitors directly to the reception area.

The walls between classrooms were removed to reconfigure the space to the needs of both administration and counseling. Each department has five private offices and is able to maintain its distinct identity. The shared hall has a cross-corridor door which may be closed when needed for privacy or open to mutually share the two new conference rooms, staff toilet, and access to the public lobby. A second lobby opening to the school corridor is designed for private student entry, including a calming room for students.
H+A assisted in furniture and equipment selection, colors, and finishes. All building systems including HVAC, lighting, power, data, fire alarm, security, AV, and sprinklers were replaced in this area. A new curtain wall transforms the building into a welcoming entry.

The full school project was constructed under 9 phases, and the administration wing was opened and occupied last August. Phased work includes 11 science classrooms, refurbishing over 30 other classrooms, and complete renovation of the cafeteria, library, Drama wing, Orchestra, Music Wing, Special Education Wing, all restrooms, lobbies, and stairs. We are completing the project with the upgrades to the Gymnasium and reconfiguration of locker rooms, and updates to the Auditorium with new audio-visual equipment and controls.