Reed-Custer Elementary School

Challenge: The district's two outdated elementary schools could no longer support a 21st century education program. The new school had to be constructed within 15 feet of the existing intermediate school while it remained in session, and the district needed it delivered without raising taxes.

Solution: Replace both schools with a single Pre-K to 5th grade building for 750 students, built tight against the active intermediate school with careful phasing to protect student and teacher safety, then demolish the old school once construction was complete.

A central stairway "beacon," with polka-dot acoustical wall art and pendant lighting, anchors the secure main entry and illuminates the school crest below

Color-coded classroom wings (yellow/green, blue, orange/red) aid wayfinding by grade level, carried through in leaf, paint-splatter, and compass floor insets unique to each space

A customized small gymnasium, designed with the P.E. teacher, features a letter/number floor system, interactive projector board, and lower basketball hoops for younger students

An aquarium built into a learning commons wall supports the librarian's aquatic life curriculum

Warm brick exterior accented with wood-look panels and stone; two age-specific playgrounds and playfields