Kent Island Elementary School
Restructuring a legacy layout
Constructed in 1956 with piecemeal additions in 1961, 1970, and 1980, Kent Island Elementary School suffered from an inefficient layout that hindered daily operations.
The renovation and expansion project restructured the facility from a K–2 model to a comprehensive pre-K–5 program, expanding the state-rated capacity from 445 to 600 students while reorganizing the entire floor plan to align with modern educational standards.
Environmentally conscious design in the Critical Area
Because the campus sits within the 1,000-foot Critical Area setback of the Chesapeake Bay, the design required a strict no-net-increase in impervious surfaces.
A strategic classroom addition within the Critical Area reconnected two isolated wings to streamline student circulation. To balance the environmental footprint, crews removed an obsolete parking lot and service drive, achieving a net reduction of impervious surface within the protected bay zone.
Upgraded amenities + early project delivery
The expansion added a full-sized gymnasium featuring an instrumental music performance stage, freeing up the legacy gym to be transformed into a cafeteria and kitchen.
Both the athletic and dining facilities sit outside the classroom wings with lockable security boundaries for safe, after-hours community use.
The project also enlarged the administrative suite, established a clear and secure main entrance, upgraded all building envelope and mechanical systems to geothermal, expanded the media center, and delivered the completed two-phase renovation four months ahead of schedule.