Designed for Flexibility, Creativity, and Connection
Minoa Elementary School underwent a major transformation as part of Phase 2 of East Syracuse Minoa Central School District’s $49.8 million Capital Improvement Project. Like Phase 1, the project focused on improving safety and security, modernizing learning environments, and upgrading building infrastructure throughout the school.
While many of the same educational goals established at Fremont Elementary carried into the project, the design team worked closely with the district to give Minoa its own distinct identity through color, layout, and spatial character.
Flexible Learning Environments
The existing 50,000-square-foot building was reorganized into grade-level learning wings that support collaboration, flexibility, and small group instruction. Breakout spaces integrated throughout the corridors create opportunities for informal learning, while classroom environments were designed to better support a range of teaching styles and student needs.
A new centrally located entrance connects directly to the school’s STEAM corridor, bringing together the Band, Music, Art, Library/Media Center, and Maker Space to encourage creativity and interdisciplinary learning.
A New Space for Gathering & Community
The project also introduced a new 3,500-square-foot cafeteria and learning commons addition that creates a more welcoming space for students and staff. Additional renovations included upgrades to the gymnasium, kitchen and serving areas, administrative offices, and building-wide HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and IT systems.
The new addition incorporates a salvaged mosaic mural originally created by the school’s former art teacher and students, preserving an important piece of the school’s history within the updated environment.
