Upon arrival at Grain Valley High School, students and visitors are guided in along the impressive, curved, blue CMU wall that begins at the entry and continues throughout the interior, comprising the spine of the building and dubbed “Eagle Way”. The raised entrance increases visibility from the street while improving traffic flow for student drop-off and pick-up.

Similar to a central college campus union, the media center represents the heart of the school, branded by a large glass eagle graphic that is visible from both inside and out. Glass dividers promote connectivity to the lecture hall, makerspace and small group collaboration rooms while providing views into the expansive courtyard. Tiered seating in the courtyard provides an outdoor learning area and offers dynamic spaces for students to socialize.

Grain Valley High School is currently home to nearly 1,100 students but is master planned to accommodate up to 1,600 high school students in the rapidly growing community. While working with the district throughout a five-phase master plan, Hollis + Miller became very familiar with the goals and priorities of the district and community.