Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation
The renovation of the Richard L. Johnson Early Education Center transformed a former elementary school into a vibrant learning environment designed to serve BCSC’s youngest learners.
Project Details
Where Early Learning Thrives
The design introduced ten new classrooms tailored to early childhood development for children aged six weeks to three years.
The project created a new home for the district’s childcare program, Bright Beginnings, which supports staff and teacher families. Responding to the district’s goal of improving staff retention through expanded early education services, the two-phase renovation more than doubled the program’s capacity for children aged six weeks to three years. The design introduced ten new classrooms tailored to early childhood development. A neutral color palette allows student artwork and classroom materials to take center stage while fostering a calm, engaging atmosphere. Soft blues, greens, browns, and natural wood tones complement nature-inspired motifs that appear throughout the learning spaces. New furniture and educational equipment were carefully selected to meet curriculum goals and provide safe, durable environments for every age group.
Daylight fills each classroom, reinforcing a connection to the outdoors and promoting a welcoming atmosphere. Every room provides direct access to renovated outdoor learning and play areas. Two new playgrounds – one for infants and one for toddlers – join an existing playground for three-year-olds. The playgrounds continue the interior design themes with natural materials, organic forms, and engaging equipment that greet families as they arrive.
Through thoughtful design and strategic renovation, the Richard L. Johnson Early Education Center now embodies BCSC’s commitment to nurturing early learning, supporting its staff, and creating inspiring spaces for growth and discovery.
