Innovation, Nature, and Community at the Heart of Construction
By Susan Slater
SUSAN SLATER
The New West Elementary School
Innovation, nature and community at the heart of construction
The anticipation surrounding the opening of the new West Elementary School was intense. A recent tour showcased every thoughtful detail of Wanamaker of Jensen Architects’ design. Its commitment to fostering both learning and connection with the natural world was evident.
Led by John Barber, Senior Superintendent of the Williams Company, in business since 1920—105 years, and Principal Christina Twardosz, teachers and staff were guided through the nearly completed structure, witnessing its vision taking shape.
The atmosphere was one of excitement and curiosity, as educators prepared to glimpse their future classrooms and communal spaces for the first time. West Elementary employs three administrators, 52 Instructional and 53 non-instructional employees, all of whom were thought of through the design and building process, picking colors and furniture right for their students.
The school will be able to accommodate 900 students, with approximately 700 at the beginning of the school year. More Pre-K space will be added, making room for eighty more students, a dedicated space designed to meet the developmental needs of the youngest learners. “Pre-K will have their own wing,” explained Angelynn Hoffman. “It will be better for special needs, too.”
Principal Twardozs emphasized the school’s dedication to integrating into the natural world. “This school is all about nature,” she noted. Each wing has a different theme, including green for the Garden Wing, blues for the Ocean and Sky Wings, and forest green for the cafeteria. Every classroom is bathed in natural light, thanks to large windows offering views of the courtyard, outdoor learning spaces, and FFA areas.
The tour wound through a variety of essential rooms, including the main entrance, a data entry room, the principal’s office, and a break/office area for teachers designed to be accessible from either side of the building. One of the most innovative features is the inclusion of both indoor and outdoor theaters. These spaces will open the door for imaginative performances, media and art projects, and assemblies, making the school truly a hub for creative expression.
Construction began on June 1, 2024, with a projection date of completion being December 2025, January 2026 move-in date. Total construction costs were $47,226,000, including buildings, sitework, and demolition of the old building, which was built in 1959. This project was funded by Pennies for Pasco and was within budget projections. The timeline remains on track as teachers will begin moving their furniture and setting up classrooms in December to prepare for students.
“This community is this school. This staff works hard,” said Aubrie Manning, a 3rd Grade Teacher. “The students deserve the new building.”
“I am happy to see bathrooms in every classroom. I’m excited that so many classrooms are facing the agriculture farm. One of my favorite parts of recess was when the cows were close to the fence,” said Erica Freeman, a past graduate.
As the tour concluded, there was a sense of hope and excitement about the future, but also bittersweet feelings with many memories of the old school. “We want to honor memories and the legacy here at West Elementary as we move to a new and brighter future,” said Twardosz.
