ATS&R was selected to provide a long-range facilities plan to address immediate needs and ‘future-ready’ learning. With the project in a rural setting, there were significant implications on the image of the school and the community itself. Therefore, the design challenge was to tie together two large, distinctly defined building elements into a cohesive, yet compelling composition.

The result was major additions/alterations that include a new auditorium, student commons/dining space and food service area, large/small group learning areas, new learning commons center, administrative suite, and alterations to science and fabrication labs. To enhance the educational experience, a variety of spaces/settings for ‘learning’, ‘exploring’, ‘socializing’, and ‘creating’ are provided throughout the school; the new spaces reflect Kasson-Mantorville’s ‘re-branding’ and their commitment to excellence.

The student commons addition is a light-filled multipurpose space for student gathering, socializing, dining, and studying. A variety of furniture consists of movable tables/seating, high-top technology work tables, soft seating, and portable sitting stools to enhance the type of activity in the space. The commons is the vibrant central hub that connects the main entrance, auditorium, and gym.

The learning commons center is a busy flexible media center space with a variety of engagement settings including open-seating areas, flexible conference areas, a ‘maker-space’, sitting nooks, and technology tables support individual learning, small/large groups, class instruction, and presentation work.

This project was designed with both students and the community in mind. The new addition and renovated spaces provide a versatile building that serves both the needs of the students and the community.