Berkshire PK-12 School

Design Team
Byron Manchester (Senior Management Lead); Jay Crafton (Project Management Lead); Eric Risinger (Project Design Lead – Architecture); Ben Fierman (Collaborative Development); Mary Dennis (Project Architect); Tim Thomas (LEED Coordinator); Brett Hendricks (Quality Control Lead); Mike Ruscitti (Architect)

The new PK-12 school, on Kent State University’s Geauga Campus, embodies student-centered learning design principles while accommodating 1,200 PK-12 students, including career tech. This facility replaces three separate buildings and provides a unified space for all grade levels.

The topography of the site, a sloping hillside with a 20-foot grade change, played a vital role in the site’s design. The change in elevation initially posed a challenge, but it provided an opportunity to create distinct points of entry for the building. On the lower level are the bus drop-off area, main assembly entrance, school entry, parent drop-off, and main-level parking. The slope of the hillside also allows for certain rooms to be seamlessly integrated, while ensuring an abundance of natural light throughout the facility.

The building is organized into wings dedicated to elementary, middle, and high school students. A central hub houses an auditorium, two gymnasiums, a library/makerspace, student dining area, and office space. The school board offices are at the southeast corner of the building. Throughout the duration of the project, the team faced challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions. However, these obstacles were overcome, and the project was brought to fruition.

The school has been designed and built to achieve LEED Silver certification.

Additional Information

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