DLR Group’s design solution enhances the educational experience for all the district’s students and staff. Located approximately 35 miles northwest of Chicago, the district serves nearly 9,000 students in grades pre-K through 12. Enhancements include new instructional spaces at all elementary schools for STEM education and students with special needs, new classrooms at both middle schools, and an addition at Barrington High School. Improvements at BHS, which was originally built in 1949, include new classrooms to support next generation learning models, cafeteria upgrades, a space dedicated to physical education and wellness, and a new student services area to house counseling, attendance, health services.

“In 2017, DLR Group led a district-wide facilities master planning process to assess learning environments and to guide decisions related to facilities and capital investments. We are honored to continue our working relationship with the community to implement capital projects identified in the plan,” said DLR Group Principal Dennis Bane, AIA, LEED AP. “Our designs will incorporate a variety of adaptable spaces district-wide to allow students and staff the ability to modify their environment daily and to offer students more flexible learning opportunities.”

Other improvements include infrastructure and life safety system upgrades at all schools, the elimination of mobile classrooms at three campuses, a new district-wide digital security system, and improved traffic flow at BHS. The projects are funded following a successful bond election on March 17, 2020. More than 60 percent of citizens voted in favor of the $147 million referendum.