BETHEL PARK, Pa. — The Bethel Park School District has unveiled plans for a new 280,000-square-foot elementary school under construction at the site of Neil Armstrong Middle School. The new facility, set to accommodate up to 1,800 students, is scheduled for completion and opening in 2026.

The three-story campus will feature state-of-the-art educational spaces designed to meet the needs of both primary (K-2) and intermediate (3-5) students. It will include two gymnasiums, two playgrounds, three STEAM labs, and two libraries. The design aims to foster collaboration among staff and eliminate the need for students to travel between different buildings for specialized subjects.

A Design Focused on Innovation and Collaboration

The school will feature a unique design that integrates both collaborative learning spaces and traditional classrooms. One of the standout features of the facility will be its 300-seat large group instruction area, allowing for flexible learning and engagement across various subjects. The layout has been specifically designed to enhance collaboration and accommodate the needs of students at different educational stages.

"The focus on collaboration and eliminating travel between buildings for specialized subjects is a key aspect of the design," said Bethel Park School District Superintendent. "This approach will make learning more efficient, and the structure is built to support our educational vision for the future."

A National Park Theme and Natural Design Elements

The architectural vision for the new school includes a national park theme, with natural colors and elements of nature integrated into the design. These features not only add to the aesthetic appeal of the facility but also assist with wayfinding, helping students and staff navigate easily to respective learning spaces.

"This design approach is intended to create an inspiring and nurturing environment for our students," said DRAW Collective, the architectural firm responsible for the project. "We wanted to create a space that supports both the educational and emotional growth of the children, drawing inspiration from the beauty of nature."

Key Project Partners

The project is being overseen by a team of experienced construction professionals. Rycon Construction serves as the general contractor, while Massaro Construction Group is managing the construction. The collaboration among these key players is aimed at delivering a high-quality, functional, and innovative facility for the Bethel Park School District.

"This is a significant investment in our community and our children's future," said Massaro Construction Group. "We’re excited to contribute to the creation of a space that will have a lasting impact on generations of students."

A Vision for the Future of Education

Once completed, the new elementary school will serve as a hub for educational innovation and community engagement. With its forward-thinking design and commitment to educational excellence, the new school will offer a dynamic learning environment that supports the needs of students, staff, and the community as a whole.

Bethel Park School District is committed to providing its students with the best possible educational experience, and the new elementary school is a reflection of that commitment.