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.