Machesney Park, IL

Harlem High School

High School

Renovation/Addition

Career Technical Education Center (CTE)

2025 Outstanding Project

This post was originally published on this site.

Harlem High School modernized and expanded its CTE Program to offer comprehensive courses in Welding/Metal Fabrication, Automotive, Manufacturing, Construction Trades, Culinary Arts, and Child Development to meet the demands of an evolving job market. The 27,000 sq. ft. STEM addition and on-site health clinic will equip students and staff with resources for career success and well-being.

This initiative consolidates all off-site CTE instruction to one location, improving access, maximizing instructional time, and opening opportunities for new programs. The space is designed to adapt to future needs, seamlessly blending traditional learning with hands-on experience for a richer education.

Creating real-world work environments in a school setting is challenging, the design team delivered an adaptable; modern space with:

  • Durable, cost-effective materials for functionality.
  • Flexible spaces to meet changing needs.
  • Vibrant wayfinding.
  • Programs like forklift training for handson experience.
  • Advanced technology for project-based learning and simulations.
  • A two-story Commons with a learning stair for collaboration. This presentation space can be used for student project presentations and for industry or community professionals’ presentations to students.
  • A crow’s nest conference room for group discussions.

This design equips students with the tools and experiences to thrive in the workforce.

Architect

DLA Architects Ltd.

Two Pierce Place, Ste. 1300
Itasca, IL 60143
dla-ltd.com
Carrie Matlock, AIA, NCARB, LEED® AP BD+C, President
847-742-4063

Design Team

  • Steve K. Wright, AIA, Principal in Charge, VP of Creativity
  • Tracy Biederstadt, NCARB, LEED® AP BD+C, PM
  • Carla Gupta, Project Architect
  • Matthew Ryan Lowe, LEED® AP BD+C, Director of Design
  • Heather Juhl, WELL AP™, Lead Designer

Owner/Client

Harlem School District 122
Machesney Park, IL
Dr. Terrell Yarbrough, Superintendent

Key Stats

  • Grades Served: 9–12
  • Capacity of Students/Occupants: 2909
  • Size of Site: 5.3 acres
  • Gross Area of Bldg./Space: 35,935 gsf
  • Space per Student: 12.35 sq. ft.
  • Cost per Student: $6,531
  • Square Foot Cost: $529
  • Project Cost: $19,000,000
  • Occupation Date: 8/15/2024

Award Issue

Fall 2025
— Outstanding Project

Photography

©DLA Architects Ltd./Alexander Romanovsky

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