THOMAS JEFFERSON INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL EXPANDS
JOPLIN - Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School recently announced that the school will break ground in June on a new arts and student life complex to open in fall 2011. The $12 million building project will more than double the school's space, increase learning opportunities, further enhance the school's academic program, and increase the scope and flexibility of the curriculum.
"TJ is proud to invest in something that matters--our students' dreams, and our community--because a great education lasts forever," said Debra Humphreys, chairman of TJ's board of trustees.
The arts and student life complex will include a concert hall that will accommodate approximately 425 people on the main floor and mezzanine and will be fully-equipped for musical and theatrical performances. The project also includes a commons area with cafeteria and outdoor dining area, a foreign languages lab for existing and enhanced language offerings, a library and media resource center for older students, choral and instrumental rehearsal rooms, a studio arts room, flexibly-sized classrooms and conference rooms for individualized learning, a new main entry and porticos covering drop-off areas at main entries.
All of these new student facilities surround a landscaped open-air interior courtyard with access from most common areas. Other improvements include new and expanded admissions and administration offices, additional parking, severe weather reinforced space and additional storage.
LOOKING DOWN ON EXPANSION PROJECT
"This exciting project addresses critical needs our school community identified during our strategic planning process last year," said Laura McDonald, TJ's head of school. "We are committed to providing an educational environment that enables every child to reach his or her full potential and to find joy in learning. These new facilities enhance our outstanding college preparatory program that has provided results for hundreds of children."
The project's chief architect, Jerry Johnson from Perkins+Will's Chicago office, gave a presentation about the project to the school community. He is working with the architect firm of Crafton Tull Sparks from Rogers, AR. The new arts and student life complex will be built by Crossland Construction Company.
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