Kiva Elementary School

Kiva Elementary School's journey to its grand reopening was a testament to the commitment and vision of the Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) Governing Board. The original school, a cherished landmark built in 1957, had served generations of students and community members. In 2019, recognizing the importance of revitalizing this beloved institution, the SUSD Governing Board unanimously voted to undertake the project.

The goal was to embrace innovative design concepts and sustainable construction practices. McCarthy, a renowned construction company, was entrusted with leading the construction process, bringing their expertise and commitment to excellence to the project. Additionally, Orcutt-Winslow, a respected architectural firm, was chosen to shape the new school's aesthetic and functionality.

However, the project faced unexpected challenges during Covid. Despite these hurdles, the project team demonstrated resilience and adaptability, implementing strict safety protocols to protect the workers and keep the project on track to open in August 2022.

Utilizing Engineered Wood Products, this project provides new classrooms, a gym, a cafeteria, and admin spaces for the school. Some words used to describe the design are "open spaces," "modern," "indoor-outdoor learning," "history," and "awe-inspiring."

Beyond its physical attributes, Kiva Elementary School carried a deeper significance. The name "Kiva" was chosen deliberately, drawing inspiration from the ancestral Puebloans' tradition. According to research done by SUSD, "a kiva is a room used by Puebloans for rites and political meetings." This elementary school is operating from its namesake as it's at the heart of the neighboring community and will provide the space for social gatherings.

Kiva Elementary School's rebuild represents more than just bricks and mortar; it symbolizes the unwavering dedication of a school district, construction experts, and architects to create a learning environment that inspires awe, embraces history, and cultivates the limitless potential of each student who walks through its doors.