An extensive renovation and addition that programmed to provide new collaborative classrooms, universal restrooms, ventilation, improved drainage, and technology framework upgrades.
The elementary school in Audubon, MN was built in the 1950s and had served the smaller communities of both Lake Park and Audubon well. While it has earned recognition as an award-winning school system, the older infrastructure
was no longer able to support community growth, modern collaborative learning, and increased technology demands. The school lacked adequate space, ventilation, and electrical receptacles, and was also in need of required maintenance updates for improved learning environments. As one of the major challenges, a low, exposed, heavy timber construction precluded the possibility of adding HVAC and maintaining adequate ceiling height. After the successful passage of the referendum, JLG hosted four user group meetings with staff to fully understand the space needs within the building and within individual spaces. Completed in the fall of 2024, the project provides a new two-story, nine-classroom addition, including small group spaces, collaborative learning areas, and an informal learning commons. The 1956 classroom wing was demolished and reconstructed to accommodate additional classrooms, flexible learning areas, and a raised floor to relieve exterior drainage issues and eliminate internal ramps. A substantial remodel created a new kitchen and cafeteria, Universal restrooms, new secure entry, improved early childhood space, and special education space.