Explorer Academy

Huntington, West Virginia

Firm

ZMM Architects & Engineers

Client

Cabell County Schools

Area

60,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$13,000,000

Completion Date

08/2016

Design team:
David Ferguson (Project Architect)

Students have begun attending the new preK-5 Expeditionary Learning School, which is the first of its kind in West Virginia. Supporters hope it’s the next step in education for Cabell County Schools and the state. The consolidation of two schools formed the incubator school, which is housed in the former Beverly Hills Middle School facility to fit the mold of the Expeditionary Learning model.
The renovation created new entrances and new vehicular approaches to the facility. Every area and classroom in the building has been renovated. Studio spaces are placed throughout the building for teachers to take students for collaboration on special projects. Abundant student display areas are found throughout the building on every space available. Student art walls are also situated inside and outside the building so students can create their own daily atmosphere.
The school’s signature “tree canopy” design evolved out of a need for an extended canopy from the parking area and a way to create a colorful walkway into the main entrance of the building.