McDonnel: New Schools in New Orleans – Project Details & Features

McDonnel recently completed two new schools for the Louisiana RSD – the Ernest “Dutch” Morial School and the Ray Abrams School. Each school is a 139,406 SF, 3-story building and has the capacity to accommodate 1,000 students in pre-K through 8th grade and includes the following amenities:

Classrooms
Special education classrooms
Science classrooms and labs
Library/media centers
Cafeteria and dining facilities
Commercial kitchen
Gymnasium/auditorium with concessions and locker rooms
Art and music rooms with flexible performance spaces
Office space for administrative and student support services

The new schools were designed to LEED Silver (pending) specifications by Waggonner & Ball Architects.

Project Overview

The Ernest “Dutch” Morial School and the Ray Abrams School are exemplary educational facilities designed to foster a dynamic learning environment. Each school spans 139,406 square feet and is structured to accommodate 1,000 students from pre-K through 8th grade, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience for young learners.

These schools feature a variety of specialized classrooms, including science labs and special education facilities, promoting an inclusive and resource-rich atmosphere. The design emphasizes modern educational needs, with amenities such as library/media centers, a cafeteria, and flexible performance spaces for art and music, all tailored to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

Sustainability Features

Both schools are designed to meet LEED Silver specifications, highlighting McDonnel's commitment to sustainability in educational construction. This certification reflects the use of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, which are crucial in reducing the environmental impact of school buildings.

Incorporating features such as natural lighting, efficient HVAC systems, and sustainable landscaping, these schools not only provide a healthy environment for students but also serve as a model for future educational projects. By prioritizing sustainability, McDonnel demonstrates its leadership in creating spaces that support both education and environmental stewardship.

Architectural Design and Collaboration

Waggonner & Ball Architects played a pivotal role in the architectural design of the Ernest “Dutch” Morial School and the Ray Abrams School. Their innovative approach ensures that the buildings are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, creating a welcoming atmosphere for students and staff alike.

The collaboration between McDonnel and Waggonner & Ball emphasizes a commitment to quality and creativity in educational design. By integrating modern architectural principles with community needs, the schools reflect a forward-thinking vision that aligns with McDonnel's goal of enhancing educational facilities across Louisiana.

Client and Project Timeline

The Louisiana Recovery School District commissioned McDonnel to undertake these significant educational projects, underscoring the importance of rebuilding and enhancing educational infrastructure in New Orleans. The timeline for the projects spanned from June 2015 to March 2017, showcasing McDonnel's efficiency and dedication to timely project delivery.

Throughout this period, McDonnel maintained a strong focus on collaboration with stakeholders, ensuring that the final designs met the specific needs of the community. This commitment to client satisfaction and project excellence is a hallmark of McDonnel's operations in the educational sector.