Solving a District Need. The Bowman Creek Elementary School project for Auburn School District was the first of three new elementary school construction projects delivered as GC/CM with Absher Construction. Built on a greenfield site, Bowman Creek Elementary School expands student capacity in one of the fastest growing districts in the Puget Sound region. With all-day kindergarten being instituted at all elementary schools and state-mandated class-size reductions, Bowman Creek serves to alleviate overcapacity in the Auburn School District elementary schools. One of the key factors for the building’s organizational design was ensuring a facility that was responsive and supportive of educational programs, and in turn enhances the teaching and learning environment. This 72,000 SF elementary school is located in an established residential neighborhood on 8.9 acres. The school includes 32 general classrooms, specialty classrooms for music and special education, an administration area, gymnasium, library, kitchen, and other support spaces.

100-Yr Design Standard. From the beginning, an Auburn School District “100-Yr Standard” was established - a theme that would be carried from planning, throughout the design and construction process. All decisions came back to this theme to ensure the Auburn SD community was provided with K-12 facilities that would be able to meet their needs for generations to come. Durable materials such as full-height brick veneer, efficient floor planning, and state-of-the-art mechanical and electrical systems all contributed to meeting this standard.