Imagining the Future of Our Schools: Phase 2 Facilities Referendum Planning Begins

What should a school look like in the 21st century? How can buildings inspire curiosity, foster community and reflect the neighborhoods they serve? These are the kinds of questions guiding the start of Phase 2 of MMSD’s facilities referendum projects, a multi-year effort to reimagine learning spaces for the next generation of students.

Phase 2 will bring entirely new schools to the Orchard Ridge Elementary/Akira R. Toki Middle, Cherokee Heights Middle and Ray F. Sennett Middle communities. Like the Phase 1 projects now in progress, these new buildings will replace aging facilities with modern, flexible environments designed to meet the needs of today’s learners and those to come.

Each site will have its own identity, inspired by the land and community it serves. At Orchard Ridge/Toki, the concept “Connect to Nature” places classrooms and shared spaces alongside the site’s forest, weaving the natural setting into the daily experience of students. 

At Cherokee Heights, the “Nestled into Landscape” concept reflects the school’s hillside location and the presence of its mature oak trees, with a central common area linking learning wings together. 

At Sennett, the “HS Axis” concept creates a new relationship with La Follette High School, with a green space between the schools designed as a gathering place for students and staff.

These are early designs that are still subject to change, but they signal a new way of thinking about what school buildings can be: places that celebrate their surroundings, encourage collaboration and make every student feel like they belong.

The design process began this fall with staff conversations at Cherokee Heights, and students, families and community members will have opportunities to share feedback throughout the coming months. “We are excited to continue this important work, which will benefit our students for years to come,” said Scott Chehak, MMSD’s senior executive director of building services. “As we move forward, we remain committed to completing these projects on time and on budget.”

Phase 1 projects—Sherman Middle/Malcolm Shabazz City High and Gompers Elementary/Black Hawk Middle schools—are still on track to break ground in late winter or early spring of 2026. Phase 2 construction will follow no later than early 2027.

Together, these efforts represent more than new walls and windows. They are about designing spaces that reflect who we are as a community, and who we aspire for our children to become.

For more details, including updated renderings and opportunities to get involved, visit the 2024 Facilities Referendum page on the MMSD website.

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