Newberg Public Schools required relocation of their Support Advocacy for Independence in Life (SAIL) program from traditional classroom space to a specialized learning environment. Process designed an addition and renovation that transformed an existing single-family residence into a facility that supports vocational training, independent living skills, social skills, sensory experiences, healthy living, and community involvement.
Process carefully assessed existing structure conditions and presented multiple options to the district. Working closely with special education staff, our team conducted comprehensive programming sessions to understand operational needs and optimize the facility’s potential. This collaborative process identified opportunities to maximize the district’s investment through the reuse of existing structures, paired with targeted new construction. Strategic space allocation situated support functions within existing seven-foot ceiling areas while creating an expansive, naturally lit classroom and teaching kitchen in the new 1,700 SF addition. The completed facility provides students with an environment built to support independence and life skills, meeting the district’s programmatic goals while respecting budget constraints.