Fort Dodge Middle School

Early in the design process for this middle school, participatory workshops resulted in abandoning the idea of traditional classroom in favor of a new student-focused learning environment. Each learning environment (known as a learning community) is comprised of several learning centers and houses approximately 150 students. At the fifth and sixth grade levels the learning communities each house six learning centers, including science studios. At the seventh and eighth grade levels the learning communities each house five learning centers, including one science lab. In addition, each learning community offers spaces for specialized learning and teacher collaboration. At the center of each learning community is a common space that offers opportunities for individual, small group and large group learning.

This project consisted of construction of a new 186,000sf middle school for the Ft. Dodge Community School District. RDG Engineering provided complete Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing design. Mechanical cooling systems consist of (1) 300 ton chiller, (1) 100 ton chiller, and air handlers providing a combined 73,900cfm of max airflow. Heat recovery is accomplished via the 100 ton chiller. Mechanical heating system is via (2) 2,820,000 MBH natural gas boilers. Electrical system consists of a 2500A, 480/208V, 3P, 4W service, 277V lighting, and 208/120V distribution panels.

A special learning community that focuses on exploratory subjects houses five studios, including art. Additional learning spaces include computer labs, synergistic labs, multi-media production lab, music, fitness, wrestling, and gymnasium spaces. Daylighting abounds with operable windows and strategically placed skylights. Color and pattern add excitement and way-finding throughout the facility.