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Building a Brighter Future: The Dover Hill Elementary School Project

February 3, 2023 | 2 minute read

When it comes to building a new school, it’s not just about bricks and mortar – it’s about creating a bright future for the students and the community. And that’s exactly what we did with the recent completion of the Dover Hill Elementary School for Joplin School District.

This 72,000-square-foot school was a true team effort, with collaboration between Crossland, DLR Group, CGA Architects, and the Joplin School District. From the very beginning, we worked together to bring the best value to our client and ensure the school would be built to last.

One of our biggest challenges was digging down 17 feet and breaking through limestone, which had to be blasted from the hilltop site. But, with the help of a specialized contractor, Dykon Blasting, we turned it into a positive. Not only did the crushed rock get re-used on the site, but the city was also able to use it for a nearby water crossing. In fact, Dykon was so pleased with how the project went they donated $250,000 back to the school district.

The new school is designed with efficiency and future growth in mind, featuring colorful walls with vibrant vinyl graphics, millwork, polished concrete for easy maintenance, and moveable wall systems for collaboration. The building also has a state-of-the-art kitchen, and a traditional wood floor gymnasium with movable goals.

Crossland’s mission to bring a unique learning experience came alive with the help of Pitsco Education. Combining a classroom activity with an exciting construction site field trip, students got a first-hand experience of how buildings come together. Activities included pouring small concrete plates, decorating them, and using a robotic crane to simulate the installation of precast construction walls- all under Crossland supervision! It was truly a memorable day for everyone involved!

By working together, we created a dream team that successfully and smoothly achieved our goal of building an even brighter future for Dover Hill Elementary School. We are proud to have been part of the project’s success and look forward to more opportunities to partner with these amazing people!