Mitchell, S.D. - Mitchell High School, located in Mitchell, South Dakota, is in the final phase of construction and is set to be completed soon. This project is more than just bricks and mortar; it's a commitment to nurturing future generations. Schools are where memories are made, dreams are inspired, and the next generation of professionals is born. Schemmer's design for Mitchell High School wholeheartedly embraces this vision.
Transforming Education: Mitchell School District's Vision for a Modern High School
Faced with the need for a modern educational facility, the Mitchell School District embarked on an ambitious journey to create a space that would not only accommodate 800 students but also foster their growth and development. The new high school is being constructed on the existing school site, seamlessly integrating with the former Mitchell Technical Institute facility (now the Mitchell Career & Technical Education Academy) from the 1960s and the 2015 Performing Arts Center & Music Wing addition—the latter an example of Schemmer's architectural expertise.
"It's been over 25 years since Mitchell has built a new school," said Project Manager Steve Thompson. "This new high school will significantly impact student learning for generations to come."
Innovative Design: Schemmer's Collaborative Vision for Mitchell High School
Schemmer's approach to the design process was collaborative and innovative. By conducting a comprehensive site survey and developing 3D models from existing facility scans, the team could closely engage with each school department. This collaboration ensured that the spaces were tailored to meet the educational needs while staying within budget constraints. The challenge of a through-street bisecting the property was ingeniously resolved by placing the new building on the west side of Capital Street, linking it to the Mitchell Career & Technical Education Academy and the Performing Arts Center. This thoughtful placement not only enhances connectivity but also positions the main entrance along Capital Street, welcoming students and the community.
"The impressive building frontage along Capital Street signals that this is a growing school district," explained Thompson.
The architectural style harmonizes with the existing structures, reflecting a sense of tradition while embracing modernity. The design includes larger standard classrooms, science labs, art and pottery studios, a two-story library, a 400-seat cafeteria, a small bistro café, and three gymnasiums, the largest of which will seat 2,000 spectators for home games.
"The two-story lobby and commons space will also offer an inviting atmosphere as people enter the school," Thompson said.
The new school exemplifies the collaborative efforts of the Mitchell School District, Schemmer, and the entire community. It is a place where students can learn, grow, and thrive, inspiring generations to come.
SCHEMMER - DESIGN WITH PURPOSE. BUILD WITH CONFIDENCE.
Schemmer is a full-service architecture, engineering, and construction field services consultant providing responsible solutions for complex design and construction-related challenges.
Founded in 1959, we are grounded in our past but remain fully committed to the future. Located in five states and eight offices throughout the Midwest, Schemmer is providing services to clients from coast-to-coast and border-to-border across the United States.
