Context

Dorothy I. Height Elementary School is a District of Columbia Public School located in Ward 4 and serves students from PK3 through 5th grade. The school was scheduled for modernization in 2022 due to aging facilities and site safety concerns. Originally composed of two separate historic buildings, the 1939 Vocational School and the 1924 Health School were carefully expanded and renovated while preserving key historical components.

Solution

A new two-story infill addition connects the two existing buildings and provides space for a skylit atrium and discovery commons. Key upgrades include a gymnasium, cafeteria, library, maker space, commercial kitchen, and upgraded health suites. The brick facades of the original buildings were cleaned and preserved or thoughtfully replicated and replaced if necessary.

The modernization also improved outdoor space. A green roof, outdoor classroom, and age-specific playgrounds extend the classroom and provide students with secure access to nature.