A new Elementary School has been built to replace the outdated, non-functional, and rigid elementary spaces previously housed at Lincoln (3-5) and Washington (PK-2). The unified PK-5 facility implements best-practice education design in an approximately 65,000 s.f. building, creating 15%-20% square footage efficiencies for the district.
The building is divided into two main zones. The first comprises public and shared use areas, including the administrative office, art rooms, food service, commons, and gym on the first level. The second floor features a secondary administrative area near the 3-5 classrooms, as well as music, library/media center, and STEM areas.
The educational zone is organized with PK-2 classrooms on the first floor and 3rd-5th grades on the second floor. K-2 and 3-5 classrooms are conveniently located around the East, South, and West sides of the central gym, providing quick access to and from that area.
The outdated and non-functional buildings of Pana's Lincoln Elementary (3-5) and Washington Elementary (PK-2) were a roadblock to the growth of the educational program.
The shared PK-5 environment fosters greater efficiency in both learning and shared spaces across the district. This flexible new space also positions the district for future program growth.
- Public and shared use spaces
- Educational zones
- STEM
- Library/media center
- Commons
- Gymnasium
- Environmental Branding
A competition gym addition, with secure entry and office suite, increases health and wellness opportunities for students and staff, while addressing the district-wide space shortage for student activities. The addition serves as a new front door for visitors, creating a positive first impression for Heyworth CUSD #4.
West Side Christian Church (WSCC) located in Springfield, IL, is a growing congregation looking to serve God and their community in bigger ways. WSCC worked with the religious design experts at BLDD to complete a master plan that facilitates their growth through the expansion of their Kids Ministry space, the creation of a new entryway, a large worship center, and environmental graphics to increase visibility and branding.
The district first partnered with BLDD in 2010 to develop a comprehensive facilities assessment and improvement strategy that addressed both immediate challenges and long-term aspirations. This partnership came at a crucial time as the district implemented its “Righting the Ship” initiative, a strategic plan designed to ensure fiscal stability while maintaining educational excellence.