Sullivan East Middle School

Bluff City, TN

The new 89,457 SF middle school will serve 700 students (core of 800) and be designed to reflect 21st learning concepts of flexibility, safety, sustainability, technology, collaboration, and more. The main academic wing is very efficient with a double-loaded corridor for typical academic courses and shared science labs per grade level. Sixth grade is on the first floor and 7th and 8th grades share the second floor. On the second floor features a ‘discovery porch’ where students can combine multiple classes or grade levels to study outdoors. Project Lead the Way is 1,000 SF lab connecting directly to the outdoor porch area for flexible project-based work activities. There is an exploratory lab at 1,000 SF open to all grade levels. It is designed for multiple classes to gather and collaborate across subjects and grade levels as needed.

The middle school also features a learning commons area with large open windows overlooking the mountains, flexible furniture solutions, large and small collaborative rooms, and study alcoves. As part of the overall efficient design layout, the gym and dining areas have a large operable wall between them to open up for certain events when more space is needed. There is not a permanent stage or auditorium programmed, but space within dining can accommodate a temporary platform to be set up for performances.