Funded by a $268 million capital construction bond passed in 2017, this new elementary school was developed to increase student capacity in this fast growing region of Central Oregon and serves 600 students in grades PK-5.
The design organizes 24 classrooms into four learning communities, each centered on a shared central learning commons. Each learning commons provides flexible space for break out and small group activities, and offers views to the interior courtyard. Classrooms are staggered within each learning community to enhance passive supervision from classrooms to the learning commons and adjacent circulation spaces.
Program support elements include a gymnasium, commons, music room, library/media center, and flexible break out space.
Outdoor amenities include two playgrounds, a central courtyard, soccer field and two baseball fields. Designed to meet district protocols for safety and security, North Star offers secure vestibule access, an electronic visitor management system and central lockdown capability.
Common use and circulation areas offer high volumes and extensive glazing, creating energizing and inspirational spaces. Natural materials including exposed Douglas Fir columns and beams, and acoustic wood paneling were used throughout and lend a warm, inviting quality to interior spaces.
North Star’s exterior expression of material and color is in context with the regional vernacular and uses locally sourced materials.