Speaking thirty-three languages, the Phillip G. Coburn Elementary School serves a diverse student population in grades PreK-5. Organized around a central daylit corridor, the school celebrates its community by displaying the homeland of each student on a magnetic map in the lobby. Educational program spaces support different learning modalities, individual and group instruction, physical activity, long-term projects, discussion and problem-solving, collaboration between pupils, and group presentations.
Named after a former public school teacher and editor of the West Springfield Record, the late Philip G. Coburn was heavily involved in the West Springfield community. According to his son, Tom Coburn, during the dedication ceremony, “Helping the youth reach their full potential was a passion for my dad. Now, the new school building will continue his legacy.”
LEFT: Marie Coburn, wife of late Philip G Coburn and joined by her son Tom Coburn and fellow family members, speaks at the Name Dedication Ceremony.
RIGHT: Jesse Saylor and Tai Soo Kim from TSKP STUDIO pose with members of associate architect Dietz & Company and general contractor Fontaine Brothers at the Philip G. Coburn Elementary School Name Dedication Ceremony.
“There are additional spaces for science, for art, and music classes. As we look for safe and supportive environments for our students, we want to build those buildings,” stated West Springfield Public Schools Superintendent Stefania Raschilla.
The Coburn Elementary School consolidated three programs: the K-8 alternative program students, the PreK students for a neighboring school, and the PreK-5 Coburn students. All previously attended school in separate school buildings. Working with the Massachusetts State Building Authority (MSBA), the feasibility study determined bringing these programs together would increase town efficiency. This project has relieved overcrowding in the district, housing nearly 700 students.
Case Study: Philip G. Coburn Elementary School
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