This new Pre-K through 2 grade center building is designed to 1) alleviate overcrowding at the District 114’s former Pre-K through 5 elementary school (now converted to a 3 – 5 grade center) and accommodate future growth; 2) support and enhance the District’s philosophy of promoting student achievement and improving behavior to realize life-long learning; 3) provide space for the District’s administrative staff and 4) become a prototype for future schools in the District.
Wilson Creek is designed with two classroom wings: The north wing houses Pre-K and K and the south wing houses grades 1 and 2. In response to the grade levels served and programs, classrooms of the north wing are larger and include student toilet rooms. All classrooms include an alcove for tidy storage of student coats and boots. Throughout, classrooms are sized for current, and in anticipation of, future teaching methods and technology.
The generous, light-filled, sky-lit terrazzo-floored dining commons of the school was conceived as a gathering space for students attending the school, the entire school district and the community. A raised double-sided stage serves the commons as well as the gymnasium to accommodate a variety of events and audience sizes. The building’s skylit library was also sized and outfitted for both student and community use.
Having passed the construction bond referendum the District needed to reduce the construction duration to meet a Fall occupancy. A harsh winter did not allow construction to commence until eighteen months before occupancy. Due to this tight construction schedule, District 114 opted to explore the use of a architectural high-performance, load-bearing precast concrete wall for the new school’s exterior. Use of this architectural precast wall allowed the school to be completed not only on time but three months ahead of schedule.
