Triway Local School District, nestled in the rural landscape just south of Wooster, Ohio, faced a unique challenge: four aging school buildings scattered across the district. With a vision to unify and modernize, the district embarked on a transformative journey to bring all students—from Preschool through 12th grade—under one roof.

The new 235,000-square-foot facility was constructed on the site of the existing high school and junior high, creating a centralized campus that not only serves students but also acts as a vibrant hub for the broader community. Recognizing the school’s role as a cornerstone of rural life, the district prioritized a design that would support both academic excellence and community engagement.

Through a collaborative educational visioning process, GPD engaged stakeholders to shape a facility that looks beyond today’s needs. Some of the unique spaces include fully equipped career-tech labs for Industrial Arts, Ag-Ed and CAD, an innovative project lab/maker space for middle school, and small group meeting rooms in each of the academic wings. The result is a forward-thinking design that emphasizes student-centered learning, flexible environments, and collaborative spaces for both students and staff. The building’s layout also supports after-hours use, with public-facing spaces located near the main entrance for easy access and a warm welcome to the community.