Gilsum STEAM Academy

Gilsum STEAM Academy was built in 1956.  It is our smallest school but houses our most unique educational programs.  The gymnasium and cafeteria were later built as a cooperation between the school district and the town, and has a modern look and feel, but the general public does not see the age and deficiencies of the original section of the building. 

Key Problems to Solve:

• The current main entrance is located within the courtyard and not clearly visible for the public. It is remote from the main office and difficult to secure
• The courtyard needs better drainage and improved surfaces. All angles of the roof drain ice and snow into the courtyard.  The courtyard It has the heating fuel tank buried within it which is still oil
• There are multiple/separate heating and cooling systems that are outdated and do not have central controls. The boilers need to be replaced and are located on the interior of the building with no exterior access
• Portions of the building lack ventilation. Other mechanical and electrical systems are not up to current code

To see the full backlog of Gilsum projects, click HERE

Proposed Solutions:

• A new secure main entrance will be built along with a new administrative office to oversee it. A new nurses office will also be in the new addition
• A new boiler room using propane will be built in the existing basement giving it exterior access. A new propane tank will be located near it with the existing oil tank removed from the courtyard
• The existing spaces vacated by the administrative offices, nurse and boiler room will be renovated into small group and teachers work rooms
• The mechanical and electrical systems will be updated to current codes and standards

Click HERE to see the designs

Educational Benefits:

• New outdoor learning spaces (science!)
• New small group learning spaces enhances the STEAM focus with opportunity for group projects and hands-on learning
• A more obvious and secure main entrance means fewer distractions (visitors) during lunch, PE, music, etc.
• A new dedicated team meeting and conference room space fosters more frequent teacher collaboration and parent/admin meetings