Charles Helmers Elementary School Classroom Addition

Charles Helmers Elementary School in Santa Clarita, California, faced challenges due to a rapidly growing student population and limited space. Initially, the school considered using a nearby public park for additional play areas, but safety concerns led to the dismissal of this plan.

As enrollment increased, the school installed 18 portable classrooms, which consumed nearly all of the hardcourt play areas, leaving students with little space for outdoor activities. To address this, the Saugus Union School District partnered with SGH Architects to design a two-story classroom addition, eliminating the need for portable buildings.

The new addition reclaimed over 60,000 square feet of play area, offering students ample space for recreation. It also included a state-of-the-art Flex Lab and outdoor learning spaces, enhancing the school’s educational environment. This transformation highlights the impact of thoughtful design in improving both facilities and the student experience.