Designers from Crabtree, Rohrbaugh, & Associates presented the final renderings and gave a virtual tour of the interior of the new John M. Gandy Elementary School at the Hanover County School Board meeting held on Tuesday, July 12th, 2022.
The design incorporates the neighborhood vernacular and architecture of Ashland's historic downtown, as well as the need for a flexible and inclusive facility equipped to prepare, enrich, and inspire Ashland's next generation.
"It's important that the school is reflective of the community, not only architecturally but also of the goals the community has for itself," said Faye Prichard, Supervisor for the Ashland District. "It should honor the Town of Ashland's history and speak to our aspirations for its future."
According to Supervisor Prichard, the final design represents months of consultation with Hanover County Public Schools, Hanover County School Board, Board of Supervisors, teachers, staff, and community stakeholders. The design endeavors to reflect Ashland's "main street" architecture and show respect for the history of the school and the surrounding Berkleytown neighborhood.
"When the prospect of building a new school first came up, one thing the Town asked is that the school stay in Ashland. We are a tight-knit community and keeping this historic school in the town is important to build trust and strengthen relationships," said Josh Farrar, Ashland's Town Manager. "We appreciate that Hanover County and Hanover County Public Schools heard and honored that request by selecting a location and design that reflects the future John M. Gandy Elementary School that our families and kids deserve."
Supervisor Prichard added, "One of the things I personally said to the designers as they embarked on the re-design was that I want this to be a school that when our kids are passing by or walking through the doors, that our kids would say, 'That's MY school!' I want them to be excited and proud to go there."
If construction goes to plan, the new John M. Gandy Elementary will welcome children spanning kindergarten through fifth grade at the start of the 2024-2025 school year.
Click here to view the full presentation with additional exterior and interior renderings.