LOCATION
Norwalk, Ohio
COMPLETION
2029
SCOPE
New Construction
Norwalk City Schools previously invested local funds to construct a new, modern high school with a strong performing arts program. However, the rest of the district remained fragmented across five aging elementary schools and one middle school, many of which needed significant repairs or full replacement.
The use of multiple outdated facilities created operational inefficiencies, inconsistent educational environments, and a disconnected school community. Students, staff, and families were spread across six separate buildings, limiting collaboration, shared programming, and a unified district identity.
Garmann Miller was engaged to perform a district-wide building assessment validation, evaluating the condition, educational adequacy, and long-term viability of each facility. Through analysis of facility conditions, enrollment trends, educational programming, and financial stewardship, it became clear that continuing to invest in multiple aging buildings was not the best use of district resources.
After extensive discussion of priorities, opportunities, and constraints, the district identified consolidation as the most responsible and forward-thinking solution and elected to proceed with a new PK–8 building plan.
During a detailed review of the existing high school drawings, the project team identified that OFCC’s original high school size calculation was substantially overstated. Once corrected, the revised data significantly reduced the district’s locally funded obligation by approximately $23 million.
Norwalk City Schools will consolidate its elementary and middle school students into a new, centralized PK–8 campus, located directly across the street from the existing high school, creating a cohesive and connected educational environment for the community.
The new PK–8 building will serve as a modern, flexible learning facility designed to support innovative instruction, evolving technology, and future enrollment growth. The project emphasizes flexible learning spaces, improved traffic flow and safety, and shared spaces that promote collaboration among students, staff, and the broader community.
