Despite challenges such as rocky terrain and limited usable acreage, the district proceeded, with the new school designed to replace an aging building, which would be repurposed for early childhood education and storage.
An outstanding feature of the project was the innovative design approach, configuring the school into grade-level ‘pods’ and integrating a storm shelter despite not being initially required by building codes. This forward-thinking addition showcased the district’s commitment to safety and community welfare. Consultants and partners like FSG, Clayton Engineering, and Alper Audi Incorporated played key roles in ensuring the project’s success.
Following completion, the community responded positively to the new school, which seamlessly integrated into the existing neighborhood while providing modern amenities for students. The project’s impact on the district and community was substantial, addressing long-standing infrastructure needs and demonstrating a proactive approach to educational facility design. Feedback from the district was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the success of the project in meeting the evolving needs of Rockwood Elementary and its surrounding community.
- Secured entry
- Grade level "pods"
- Extended Learning Center
Faced with outdated high school facilities, an extensive community engagement planning process identified and assisted in prioritizing needs; ensuring a successful plan.
The Community Engagement Planning Process with Meridian CUSD #15 resulted in a clear direction, to reduce the number of campuses from four to two and concentrate resources to make these remaining two campuses healthy, safe, and educationally relevant.
As a component of the April 2019 referendum, Hixson Middle School was to be expanded so that it could receive the school district’s sixth grade students after another district facility transitioned from a single grade and specialty school to a K-5 elementary school. The current middle school, originally opened in 1955, would require both renovations and building additions to accommodate the increase in student population.