Project File: Preparing for rapid growth

Growth is nothing new to Carmel Clay Schools, Carmel, Indiana. In 1997, the district's enrollment was 10,380 students; it has since grown to more than 12,000. Enrollment is expected to reach 14,000 students by 2010.

Carmel Clay Schools established a community-based task force in 2001 to study demographic projections. The committee proposed a building plan that would expand facility space, yet still provide students with smaller, more personal learning environments.

By August 2005, Carmel Clay Schools will feature a new middle school, a new elementary school and a new freshman center. The freshman center will be integrated into the existing high school, relieving crowding and providing a singular area for all freshman academic classes. The new middle school will allow for enrollment to be reduced to 1,200 students in each 6-8 school.

Additions and renovations for Carmel Junior High School, Clay Junior High School and Forest Dale Elementary School will modify each facility to support Carmel Clay School's team-teaching approach. Renovations will convert each building to a “school-within-a-school.” Additions will provide students with the same educational opportunities found in the new facilities.

Fanning/Howey Associates, Inc. (Indianapolis) is architect.

For more information on these projects and others, visit www.schooldesigns.com.