Elevatus was engaged to transform E.A. White Elementary School at Fort Benning, a 50-year-old institution serving pre-K through 5th-grade students from military families, into a modern educational environment where learning happens everywhere—inside and out. The original school’s outdated design constrained teachers’ ability to implement contemporary teaching methods, prompting the need for an inspiring, flexible space that supports students’ growth and development.
The 17-acre site posed unique design challenges, including a 100-foot elevation change. Rather than view this as an obstacle, the design team embraced the opportunity to integrate dynamic learning spaces into the landscape. The terraced design incorporated playful and educational features such as an echo wall, a fossil exhibit, and an outdoor amphitheater, turning the site’s natural topography into an asset. The elevation tiers were thoughtfully organized to match grade levels, providing tailored outdoor spaces for play and learning, from Pre-K through 5th grade.
Within the school, the design team imagined seven flexible learning “neighborhoods,” each surrounding a central hub. These collaborative spaces foster a modern approach to education, where teachers, support staff, and students work together to create an optimal learning experience. The design reflects the principle that “learning occurs everywhere,” blending indoor and outdoor environments to create a holistic, engaging learning landscape.
Additionally, the facility is designed for LEED Silver certification and will consume 42% less energy than the ASHRAE 90.1 standard. Sustainable energy systems, including photovoltaic panels, a wind turbine, and rainwater harvesting, are integrated into the design as educational tools, reinforcing the school’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The thoughtful blend of architectural innovation and sustainability delivered a state-of-the-art learning environment for E.A. White Elementary School that meets the needs of today’s educators and students.
