News Careers Contact

Baraboo School District - Jack Young Middle School

Revitalize the school to improve safety, increase stability + modernize student learning environments

Built in 1976, Jack Young Middle School (JYMS) was in need of modernization and ADA-compliance updates. The community passed a facilities referendum to revitalize the middle school as part of the third phase of the District’s master plan. The defining feature of building’s interior was a multi-story system of steep, non-ADA compliant ramps. JYMS also suffered from a severe lack of natural light and over utilization of thin curtain walls with minimal sound proofing.

Key to the redesign was the replacement of the ramping system. The redesigned school now features a beautiful and functional redesigned main staircase that improves flow throughout the building and serves as a striking focal point.

Shifting traditional classrooms into smaller “houses” creates a transformational learning environment for students. The new academic core includes more flexible, light-filled learning spaces with areas for student collaboration. The gym and cafeteria was enlarged and the library overlooks the commons. A new front entry brings additional daylight and activation into the school.