New Glarus Elementary School Addition & Renovation

This school expansion introduces new opportunities for positive and innovative learning for students. The Glarner Knight logo is prominently displayed on a masonry tower, serving as a welcoming landmark as students, staff, and community members approach the building. The commons area, strategically located at the building’s entrance corner, is enclosed by a two-story glass curtain wall, creating a striking beacon, visible from afar. The new two-station gymnasium accommodates over 500 occupants and features an innovative, multi-projection interactive system, designed to engage students physically, intellectually, and socially. Each grade, from 4K to Second, has a dedicated collaboration space equipped with flexible furniture, open cubbies, and sensory zones, fostering interaction and small-group learning opportunities. The school’s unique design ensures that each classroom includes an exterior window with impact-resistant glass. Since portions of the construction were scheduled during the school year, the existing space was separated from the new addition to prevent unauthorized access into the work area. The addition was completed by winter break, allowing for the remodeling of the existing cafeteria into a new library.