LOCATION
Celina, Ohio
COMPLETION
2024
SCOPE
Renovation & Addition
Celina City Schools, in collaboration with the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission, partnered with Garmann Miller on a 2022–24 facilities project to complete a renovation of its existing intermediate school and build a 115,000-square-foot addition. The new structure contains classrooms for PK-3 students, while the enhanced intermediate school has been reprogrammed to serve grades 4-6.
As part of the district’s OFCC master plan, it was determined that two existing elementary buildings would be razed and consolidated with the intermediate facility to form a unified Celina Elementary School. Improvements include a complete standing seam metal roof system replacement, new interior finishes, lockers, casework, ceiling tiles, site work, and electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and technology upgrades.
Project phasing for the existing 23-acre site was critical to maintaining normal daily operations. Additionally, the campus supports two existing school buildings, athletic practice fields, and playgrounds, and is positioned adjacent to residential neighborhoods and small businesses. The construction schedule addressed the safety of students, staff and visitors as well as efficient project execution.
Extended learning areas complement classrooms that allow flexibility for breaking into smaller groups within the respective grade-level areas. Similarly, the loose furnishings in all classrooms allow multiple configurations for collaborative, student-led learning or traditional instruction.
“One thing we really like about our new school building is how thoughtfully it’s designed to support both students and staff. The spacious classrooms and collaborative spaces create an inviting environment for learning, and the updated facilities make it easier to integrate technology and modern teaching practices. It’s a space that truly reflects our commitment to building excellence together."Michelle Duncan | Principal
The kitchen was expanded into the previous administrative area to accommodate the addition of grades PK-4, while the existing gymnasium was updated. A second auxiliary gym was designed to also serve as a storm shelter for all students and staff.
With a focus on minimizing operational costs, the project included sustainable features such as daylight glazing, a high efficiency HVAC system, outdoor learning labs, durable material selections, and water-efficient equipment and fixtures. The district’s investment in a standing seam metal roof will save maintenance costs for years to come. Celina Elementary achieved LEED Silver from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).
