St. Paul breaks ground on new Bruce Vento Elementary School
St. Paul Public Schools has begun work to merge two elementary schools in a project that will last until 2025.
The new Bruce Vento Elementary School will house nearly 700 K-5 students from the existing Bruce Vento and John A. Johnson schools in a single building along with an additional 120 preschool children and Early Childhood and Community Hub programs.
The new building will combine indoor and outdoor learning environments using a discovery trail that will connect to give students different opportunities to learn and play.
Bruce Vento Principal Nicole Napierala called the project an innovative way to give kids a better, more modern learning experience.
“We know how important the positive impact early learning has on our children, all this extra space also means that we will be able to welcome families with children as young as infants through early childhood family education programs,” Napierala said. “I know the finished product will be well worth the weight and the pride and joy of our resilient community.”
The new school’s roughly $90 million design also will bring the discovery trail into indoor interactive learning spaces equipped with an indoor play area and sensory wall to promote inclusivity and allow students to unwind in healthy ways.
Additionally, the new Bruce Vento will offer support services such as mental health counseling for students and a family center to distribute food, water and housing services to families in need.
“The new residential elementary will be stronger than ever and continue to be the center of the community,” Richard Gibson, director of Achievement Plus. “We’re all joined together in creating a safe and welcoming space in support of the children and families of St. Paul.”
Ward 5 Council member Amy Brendmoen said the project will not interfere with students’ current learning at Bruce Vento, and will be an example on how to bring public education into the future.
“We’re ready to lean into the 2020s and do something amazing here,” Brendmoen said.
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