SOUTHWEST MIDDLE SCHOOL

CAMPUS MODERNIZATION

CLIENT

Polk County Public Schools

YEAR

2024

STATUS

Under Construction

SCALE

183,000 SF

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Located in the heart of Lakeland, Florida, Southwest Middle School (SWMS) prides itself on tradition and a deep sense of community. The school, founded in 1956, is home to more than 900 students annually.

The Southwest Middle School Campus Modernization master plan, designed by Straughn Trout Architects, will increase student capacity by 30%. The new campus will enrich student lives by creating safe and secure learning environments (both inside and out) while utilizing technology to support student engagement.

 

CAMPUS DESIGN

The campus features two prominent buildings designed around a centralized student community space, which frames views of the existing mature oak grove to the north. Additional site amenities include new parent parking + student pick-up and drop-off areas, a new bus loop, and a lighted track and field.

The new two-story structure spans more than 175,000 SF. Program components include the following: administrative offices, a media center, classrooms, laboratories, a fine arts suite, a cafetorium, and an outdoor covered dining area. Each program area (as well as the adjoining tertiary spaces) were carefully considered to create spaces that cultivate a positive student experience and increase student achievement.

This innovative campus design allows for the complete construction of the new campus structures without disrupting existing campus operations whatsoever, allowing for a seamless transition from old to new at the scheduled completion in 2023.

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