Groton, MA – Studio G Architects recently shared construction progress updates for the new Florence Roche Elementary School (FRES) in Groton. The project is entering the final construction phase and Studio G is working collaboratively with the Town of Groton; the Groton-Dunstable Regional School District; Leftfield Project Management serving as owner’s project manager; and Gilbane as construction manager.
Collaborating closely with the district, Studio G has crafted a design intending to reflect the district’s educational modality, Universal Design for Learning, while leveraging the unique opportunities presented by the site. The approximately 110,000sf new-construction elementary school is designed to provide the 645 students from kindergarten through grade 4 with a modern and energy-efficient learning space.
The principles of Universal Design for Learning recognize that students have diverse needs and learning styles. To create a more intimate learning environment for young children, FRES is organized into grade-level learning neighborhoods, designed to help make a large school feel small.
“Each learning neighborhood has a shared project area, a variety of pull-out spaces, and integrated special ed supports,” said Marylee Mercy, project architect and accredited learning environment planner at Studio G Architects. “This environment supports Universal Design for Learning with the spaces and features needed for the engagement, teaching representation, and learning expression for all students.”
Construction of the new FRES is expected to be completed by this summer, with the school ready for the start of the new year in September.
