Cherry Hill Elementary/Middle, 159, Baltimore City Public Schools

This project is being completed in conjunction with JRS Architects, Inc. and GWWO Inc, of Baltimore, Maryland.

Through the collective efforts of Baltimore City Public Schools, the Maryland Stadium Authority, the City of Baltimore, and Maryland’s Interagency Committee on School Construction, a 21st Century School Buildings Plan was developed to build future-focused, adaptable, sustainable, and high-quality schools with the first phase targeted at providing renovations and additions to 11 schools within Baltimore. The Cherry Hill Elementary and Middle School project consists of the demolition of 31,920 SF and the renovation of 26,600 SF of the original facility built in 1945. The school will house over 900 students in grades 3-8.

The 2-story school allows for a school within a school concept with elementary students occupying the lower level and middle school students located on the second floor. New classrooms are organized in groups of 6 for each grade level, with a collaborative learning area in each cluster. A bridge that connects the middle school classrooms with the media center and S.T.E.A.M. teaching spaces overlooks an open cafetorium on one side and interior learning courtyard on the other.

Throughout the school, students and staff will have a direct connection with the outdoors through large expanses of glazing, including a 6,000 SF interior courtyard, which helps to create an ideal indoor learning environment with views and natural light.

The addition, which consists of brick, fiber-cement panels, and glass, compliments the original brick building. Efficient mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems, and the use of sustainable materials and finishes will help this school achieve a LEED Silver Certification level.