Clear Creek School District Carlson Elementary School
Why
After passing a capital construction bond in 2021, Clear Creek School District retained RTA to renovate the former High School/ Middle School building to be used for the relocation of the existing Carlson Elementary School, which was challenged by an aging building and tight site constraints.
How
In a collaborative effort, RTA worked with the owner’s representative, and the district Design Oversight Group (DOG). Comprised of district leadership, staff and community members, the DOG worked with the design team to identify the project goals and vision. Early on, the DOG determined that the design will be based on the concept and practice of Expeditionary Learning, which supports active learning, character growth, and teamwork.
What
The four-story existing building was reconfigured for elementary school use and features classrooms organized into two Learning Communities, a gym, music rooms, Media Center, Maker Space, Expeditionary Classroom, STEAM classroom, kitchen, cafeteria, and dining. The new elementary school utilizes approximately 71,000 square feet of the existing building and is occupied by 150 students. Additional space within the building provides program opportunities for the community. In line with Expeditionary Learning principles, the classroom and teaching areas incorporate direct access to nature, daylighting, interactive technology, and flexible, collaborative spaces that encourage discovery and provide a safe place for students to innovate. The administration area and entrance were enhanced to improve safety and security. The reception area has direct physical control of the entry through the use of glass and electronically controlled door hardware as well as direct line of site to the entry, parking lot, and drop off areas.
Project Details
Size: 71,252 sf
Cost: $26M
Design Details
- Direct access to nature and daylighting throughout the building
- Interactive technology, and flexible, collaborative spaces