For more than a decade, Hollis + Miller has collaborated with Grain Valley School District on a comprehensive master plan, transforming its high school campus into a vibrant and adaptable learning environment through several phases of additions and renovations. Updates include modernized classrooms and CTE labs for various disciplines, dedicated fine arts spaces and state-of-the-art athletic facilities. The design emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, and creativity, with features like a new media center, collaborative spaces and an interior courtyard bringing natural light into the building while providing secure outdoor spaces for students. School pride is woven throughout the design through dynamic environmental graphics inspiring students to learn and grow.
Phase 3: Renovation and Transformation
Phase 3 focused on revitalizing existing spaces to foster collaboration and hands-on learning. The corridors and bus entry were renovated to create inviting collaboration spaces, encouraging interaction and teamwork among students. An existing classroom was transformed into a culinary arts kitchen and five new business department lab classrooms were established, including spaces for broadcasting, journalism, digital photography, sewing, a ProStart commercial kitchen, chemistry and a biomedical classroom. These flexible spaces cater to different learning styles, interests, and needs, ensuring all students have the opportunity to thrive and discover their passions.
Phase 4: Expansion and Connectivity
Phase 4 introduced a significant addition on the west side of the building, creating a new connection doubling as a collaboration space. This phase saw the creation of a large, modern media center, fully equipped for interactive learning. Similar to a college campus union, the media center serves as the heart of the school, featuring a large glass eagle graphic symbolizing school pride and visible from both inside and out. The addition includes a large group meeting/lecture space and a makerspace. An expansive interior courtyard was designed to bring ample natural light into the surrounding classrooms and circulation spaces, and tiered seating in the courtyard provides an outdoor learning area and dynamic space for students to extend their learning to the outdoors.
Phase 5: Fine Arts Focus
Phase 5 brought new dedicated fine arts spaces reflecting the school’s commitment to creativity. A new large band room with a conductor’s “Eagles Nest” was added, along with a Black Box Theater, galleria, choir room and percussion room. The existing auditorium underwent extensive renovations, including new lighting and sound systems, new seats and acoustical wall treatments. A new drama classroom and stagecraft area were offer students a professional environment to hone their theatrical skills and bring performances to life.
Phase 6: Athletic Enhancements
Phase 6 focused on enhancing the school’s athletic facilities. A new fieldhouse gymnasium seats 2,000 spectators, with a large Eagle graphic commanding attention on the floor. The existing gym was renovated to serve as an auxiliary gym, and improvements were made to the PE and varsity locker rooms, as well as the athletic training room. A weight room provides students with top-notch fitness equipmentw hile a secure student entrance and administrative area guide students through the spine of the building, known as “Eagle Way.” This phase also included renovations to the current commons area, ensuring a cohesive and welcoming environment for all.
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