Kraus-Anderson Construction announced that it has begun work on a new $35 million Horace Mann Elementary School in Fargo, N.D. Designed by ICON Architectural Group, the planned three-story, 78,460-square-foot building will bring together students from the existing Horace Mann, Roosevelt, and Madison elementary schools in a single K–5 facility, which is scheduled for completion in spring 2028.

The project replaces the existing Horace Mann building, which first opened in 1915 and that remained largely unchanged for decades, with an elevator added in 1995 representing its only major addition, according to a press release.

Plans for the new school reflect current design trends in education, including classrooms with natural light, flexible learning environments, and interior colors intended to create an engaging setting while allowing students and staff to personalize the space. The design of the exterior incorporates brick, cast stone, and architectural detailing that's designed to complement the surrounding historic neighborhood. Outdoor amenities will include an accessible playground with inclusive play equipment, a poured-in-place safety surface, and a large grass field for recreation and other activities.

Why this matters

Many school districts are facing aging school inventories, and the Fargo project suggests that replacing and consolidating multiple older campuses may be a preferrable strategy for facilities teams rather than continuing to invest in buildings that may no longer support current educational, accessibility, and operational needs.

By combining three elementary schools in one purpose-built facility, the district has an opportunity to modernize learning environments, improve accessibility, and reduce the maintenance and operating demands associated with managing several aging buildings. The project also illustrates how replacement schools can acknowledge the architectural character of an established neighborhood while providing more flexible instructional and outdoor spaces.