Story

The 12th Street Elementary School is the first of the several buildings to be added to the Portage School building program. Located in a residential community of Portage, Michigan, 12th Street Elementary is a two-story, 24-classroom school with a capacity of approximately 500 students.

The classrooms are Technology Enhanced Classrooms (TEC) with interactive teacher stations which allow for instant display and demonstration of learning material. The cafeteria features a warming kitchen and also functions as an auditorium. Movable walls separate spaces into stage and music room areas.

The physical education and activity areas include a gymnasium and multiple playgrounds.

The school was designed and constructed to meet or exceed current sustainable design standards for energy efficiency, occupant comfort and air quality. Materials used were selected for recycled content, future recyclability, low volatile organic compound, durability and ease of maintenance. Additionally, a horizontal geothermal system was installed to provide a renewable energy resource for the school.