Deer Creek Elementary School

The design of this two-story K-4 school was developed through a collaborative process with teachers and administrators. The team aspired to create a reimagined, inquiry-based teaching and learning environment that is student-centered, collaborative, safe, and flexible.

Flexible collaboration was achieved through grade-level learning communities; six classrooms surround a multifunctional activity commons that extends each classroom. It also serves as a space for STEM activities, grade-level presentations, indoor recess, push-in remediation, and outdoor learning.

Five learning communities are positioned around a central media center, where a large, two-story open area draws students into zones for gathering and reading, as well as spaces for media production. Interior courtyards flanking the media center flood the building with natural light and provide secure outdoor learning opportunities, while contributing to a compact building design that minimizes corridor space and maximizes instructional space.

Noise levels and traffic patterns were addressed through acoustic design and a separate wing for the gym and cafeteria, which includes small, round café tables that support language development and encourage quieter conversation.

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