Storm Lake Early Elementary School

Storm Lake, Iowa

Firm

DLR Group

Client

Storm Lake Community School District

Area

99,800 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$26,240,000

Completion Date

08/2024

Michael Robinson

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Drawing inspiration from nature, Storm Lake Early Elementary School invites outdoor activities reminiscent of days spent during summer camp. Unbounded adventure is always around the corner here for the littlest of learners. A call to energize, inspire, and ignite young minds into a lifelong love of learning is the primary design focus, prompting non-traditional spaces that emerge bursting with energy and enthusiasm. From the moment students are greeted at the campground to when they hike to their neighborhoods, learners are immersed in a world of color and pattern. Collaborative, hands-on learning spaces, which didn’t exist in the district before this school was built, are shifting the community’s mindset to new and exciting opportunities. Grade-level neighborhoods flank adaptable discovery areas that enable students to express their creativity while also fostering friendships. Mobile furniture supports flexible spaces and inclusive learning modalities for all in this active and rapidly growing age group. Beacon spaces, with their soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, connection to outdoors, and spirited murals, inspire the most eager minds to dream big.