Built in 1924, South Side Elementary is the oldest elementary facility in the Champaign School District. The original facility was designed during a time when children would walk to and from school, and aside from technological upgrades, few changes had been made to modernize the building since its original construction.
An addition and renovation includes a new gym, dining commons, administration offices, library and three flexible-learning classrooms. To improve safety and security, a tornado shelter was added, along with updated entry controls and advanced camera systems.
Environmental graphics reinforce the traditions and focus of the historic South Side program with star motifs and emphasis on every student reaching their potential. Flooring design in the commons and graphics reminds students that ‘Stars Shine Here.’
Additional details include:
- Large banners in the commons remind students to ‘Be Safe, Be Kind, Be Respectful, and Be Ready’
- Classroom corridors use photos of South Side students from a school-wide project, ‘Best of Me’
- Each grade environment is branded with a different color to aid with wayfinding
As one of the oldest elementary schools in the district, the facility required upgrades to both its structure and educational programming.
The renovated facility seamlessly blends a modern, engaging environment with the preserved historic character of the school.
- 29,000 Square Foot Renovation
- 15,000 Square Foot Addition
- New Gymnasium
- Dining Commons
- Administration Offices
- Flexible Learning Classrooms
- New Library/Media Center
- Upgraded Security Features
- Branded Environments
The new Ellsworth Dansby Jr. Magnet School houses K-8 students in an environment that revolves around student-focused learning with the incorporation of flexible and collaborative work spaces to encourage students to work in small groups.
The new K-8 school features a commons area with a stage for presentations and events, along with a media commons in the core of the school. Students enjoy colorful “portals” to represent different environments within the school, as well as creative makerspaces for a hands-on education.
The district had two separate schools that served their small, rural student population. Both campuses needed extensive updates and lacked 21st century spaces. The new, smaller single campus school serves the district within a tighter footprint with increased 21st century program space.