Story

Grand Rapid Public Schools and Triangle Associates, Inc. broke ground in Spring 2007 on the New Dickinson Elementary—a three-story academic building for students from Dickinson and Jefferson Elementary Schools. The new elementary features 22 class rooms, including six group emphasis rooms, cafeteria, gymnasium, library, media center, art room and music room with stage. The building’s hallways are shaped to serve as multipurpose common areas encouraging ‘out of the class room’ group learning. Electronic card readers provide state-of-the-art security. The surrounding school grounds were designed to offer neighborhood children a place to relax, play basketball or enjoy the new play ground. The school building was designed with a community focus—to fit into the neighborhood and continue its history. Historic arches and keystone blocks from the existing elementary school were removed and re-incorporated into the new facility. The existing historic arch at the entrance of the original Dickinson Elementary was utilized to welcome students and visitors entering the school grounds. This project included the demolition of the existing three-story, 30,000 sq.ft. Dickinson Elementary building.