WILLISTON, N.D. – AUGUST 31, 2026 – On August 12, 2026, JLG Architects was in Williston, ND, to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the new Sloulin Elementary School, built on the former site of the Sloulin Field International Airport. The 80,000-square-foot school accommodates 600 K-5 students and 60 staff members in Williston Basin School District #7. As the first new elementary facility to open in Williston in over a decade, Sloulin Elementary utilizes experiential architecture to transform the daily experience for students and teachers alike.
The process to name and design the school started with a tribute to Kermit and Wesley Sloulin, two local World War II heroes who grew up in the region and made the ultimate sacrifice in combat, both before the age of 26. While Kermit served in the U.S. Army, Wesley took to the skies as a B-17 Flying Fortress pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps, eventually becoming the first North Dakota pilot to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross.
To help the Sloulin brothers’ story resonate with a new generation, JLG environmental graphic designer Catherine Dorsher worked closely with a Sloulin family relative to source authentic imagery and with the District to convey the spirit of western North Dakota. This historical narrative begins the moment students enter the building.
Spanning hallways and windows, Aviators imagery takes flight up the stairs, as well as at the front desk, where it greets students and teachers. Using imagery to guide students through the school, the Aviators’ coyote makes appearances to introduce fun facts about aviation and the prairie ecosystem. As students move from space to space, native species emerge and follow along; meadowlarks flitter through the sky, bison roam near stairwells, and prairie butterflies create an immersive environment where children are invited to joyfully explore.
JLG’s design blends the school’s brand identity colors of gold and black with a spectrum of playful, muted hues inspired by a natural prairie palette. Throughout the graphics, the airplane motif is interwoven with a sense of whimsy, turning aircraft and flight paths into vibrant storytelling elements that lead students through an epic educational journey.
“Sloulin Elementary is infused with color and environmental graphic design that feels full of life, energizing students as they navigate the building. By grounding the school in local history and vibrant regional imagery, the spirit of the Aviators becomes more than a mascot — inspiring courage and inviting exploration.”
—Catherine Dorsher | Environmental Graphic Designer – JLG Architects
JLG’s design for Sloulin Elementary centered on open, adaptable learning neighborhoods that support collaboration between classrooms while allowing spaces to evolve as teaching methods and enrollment needs evolve. Flexible storage and modular furniture extend that adaptability. The design also includes smaller, quieter spaces and cozy under-stair nooks to support individual focus and varied learning styles.
A naturally lit media center serves as a key shared learning space. Expansive south-facing windows bring daylight into the room, while its modular furnishings, accessible shelving, and varied seating support individual study, small-group work, reading, and larger activities.
“As a proud Hagan Hawk and Williston Coyote, I have had the pleasure of sitting across from Dr. G at many desks over the years. It started with a principal’s desk in high school, but now it’s usually across a conference table talking about the future of our community. Thank you to Dr. G, your amazing team, and the board for your continual trust and leadership. This project is one of perseverance through community growth, staff streamlining the transition, students who love learning, and District leadership’s vision for a resilient future. On behalf of the entire design team of JLG Architects, CMTA, and AE2S, we hope these walls will add to the legacy of our community. We’re excited to see the Aviators fly!“
—Nick Lippert, AIA | Principal Architect – JLG Architects
