River Grove Elementary School

The reimagined River Grove Elementary School is a thoughtful, environmentally
progressive replacement of the original elementary school on the site, built
in 1967.It is a fully electric, certified path-to-net-zero building. A collaboration
between the school district, design team, and local utility provider enabled further
innovation by developing a microgrid design, one of the first American schools to
feature this innovation and playing an active role in the state’s effort to reach zero
carbon energy production by 2040.

The design of the new River Grove Elementary School was the result of a
collaborative effort involving students and teachers, with the aim of improving
student wellbeing and facilitating teaching and learning. Embracing the stunning
natural surroundings, the building plan supports an educational experience that
extends beyond the confines of the classroom, fostering a greater connection
to the environment. By addressing the challenges of a fragmented school
community caused by the previous facility layout and the impact of a global
pandemic, the new design aims to create a cohesive and connected environment.

The design meets the new elementary school standards established by the
Lake Oswego School District’s 2020 Elementary Educational Specifications and
provides classrooms, extended learning areas, an innovation lab, music room,
stage, library, administration offices, gymnasium, outdoor covered play area,
outdoor learning spaces, and play fields.