Garrett-Keyser-Butler Community School District is proud to unveil the first in a series of conceptual artwork for the future J.E. Ober Elementary School. These early renderings represent significant study, planning, and collaboration — all centered on creating a modern learning environment where our youngest Railroaders can grow, thrive, and succeed.
In partnership with Elevatus Architecture and The Hagerman Group, the district conducted a comprehensive evaluation of renovation versus new construction for the current J.E. Ober building. With framework and layout challenges limiting instructional and accessibility needs, the analysis clearly showed that a new elementary school would deliver the greatest long-term value and focused productivity for students.
The new J.E. Ober Elementary will be built as an addition to the current campus, preserving the distinctive links at GKB between the elementary, middle, and high schools while creating a fresh, student-centered gateway for the district. Early concepts feature six classrooms per grade level, an expanded cafeteria with a new kitchen, a private outdoor playground, and light-filled learning spaces designed to support student well-being and engagement.
Designed to serve up to 900 students by 2032, the project reflects needed community input — including ideas from current students whose insights helped decide elements of the design. These first conceptual images are only the beginning. In the coming months, GKB will share additional renderings and updates as the vision for the new J.E. Ober Elementary continues to take shape, while building a future-ready home for learning.
