Lawrence Elementary School

As MSAD 49 looked to the future, district leaders, educators, and community members came together to reimagine elementary education across four towns, creating a long-term solution that would strengthen opportunities for students while replacing aging facilities.

The process led to a shared vision for a unified elementary campus. By repurposing Benton Elementary School for PreK–2 students and constructing a new school for grades 3–6, the district was able to bring students together in modern learning environments while replacing three aging facilities. Located adjacent to the existing school, the new campus creates a seamless educational experience that supports students as they progress through their elementary years.

Throughout planning and design, community engagement played a central role. Working closely with district leaders, local stakeholders, and the Maine Department of Education, CHA helped build consensus around a solution that secured state funding and reflected the priorities of the communities it serves.

Today, Lawrence Elementary School provides flexible learning spaces, a centrally located Learning Commons, music and physical education spaces, and a welcoming cafeteria with views of the surrounding countryside. Energy-efficient systems, improved circulation, and enhanced campus safety features support daily operations, while the building itself serves as a long-term investment in the educational future of the region's students.