About the Building

Building Entry:

The high school plans call for two entrances on the north side of the building; these are coordinated with the overall site design with the goal of providing ample separation between middle school and high school students. The building is organized with the majority of high school educational functions in the eastern portion of the building.

Commons and Community:

The central portion of the building contains the high school commons area, community and event focused spaces, and the gymnasium. The portion of the building near the existing middle school houses music and arts functions that will be shared by the high school and the middle school. This approach frees up space in the middle school for an expanded commons area which, in turn makes middle school lunch scheduling more efficient and improves the educational experience.

Building Programming:

At the time the high school reaches full enrollment (Fall of 2024) the district anticipates 530 students based on current 2nd-5th grade enrollment. In December of 2017, the district hired a consultant to complete a demographic study of Lockwood to analyze population growth and project growth over the next 15-20 years. Based on the conclusion of that report, preliminary plans and budgets reflect a building designed to educate 700 students. The building is planned to include space for core academics, resource services, alternative high school spaces, and enhanced Vo-Ag/CTE facilities. Drawings call for a 3-story educational wing, leaving space for an additional 30,000 sf of high school education spaces if future expansion is required. Adjoining the high school commons area a 3000 seat gymnasium is planned; a facility of this size allows for the hosting of sports tournaments, and seating for cross-town rivalry games (which otherwise might be held at Metra Park.) The gymnasium would allow for graduation and related events to take place on the campus. A walking track and additional upper-level seating are located in the gym as well. The auxiliary gymnasium provides additional educational space, area for school and community events, a weight room, and offers a partnership with Jr. ROTC for an indoor air rifle range. Also planned is a 700 seat auditorium space, this space would allow for the hosting of primary school concerts, middle school band/ choir events, as well as high school band, choir, and drama programs. Community centered spaces include a large community room and a library.