NorthWood High School

Wa-Nee Community Schools sought to elevate the high school experience by expanding and modernizing spaces that touch the widest range of students. Additions for science, music, and athletics strengthened core programs, while extensive interior renovations—spanning shop, art, CTE, and science areas—transformed dated spaces into modern environments ready for 21st-century learning.

The project required construction in three separate areas of the building, along with widespread interior renovations that took place during the school year. To encourage local contractor participation, the district bid the work as four separate projects, resulting in multiple teams working on-site simultaneously. The decision to expand the existing 1970s athletic center also introduced structural constraints, particularly around the width of the pre-engineered metal system needed to support the new program spaces.

The completed improvements have greatly expanded opportunities for students. A refreshed media center, new green room, and dedicated maker space support creativity and collaboration. Music programs now benefit from spacious, purpose-built environments—including a band room large enough for indoor color guard practice, a flexible show choir room, and a new dance studio with wood flooring. Updated science classrooms integrate lab space directly into the room, supported by large prep areas for staff. Art and CTE facilities now accommodate a wide range of offerings such as ceramics, jewelry, FFA small-engine work, woodworking, robotics, and electrical courses.

Athletic expansions were equally transformative. Removing an outdated racquetball court and storage areas made space for an indoor track encircling new wood courts. The addition also included a new weight room, locker rooms, and a classroom. Most recently, a connecting corridor between the high school and athletic center was added, allowing students to move safely and efficiently between buildings for physical education and extracurricular activities.