King Open School

OVERVIEW

The King Open/Cambridge Street Upper Schools and Community Complex extends beyond the depth of a new building. W.T. Rich led the construction efforts on a complex center that incorporates over 100 years of history tied into its campus. The new facility spans 270,000 square feet and houses the King Open School (JK-5), Cambridge Street Upper School (6-8), King Open Preschool, King Open Extended Day (KOED), Community Schools, Cambridge Public Schools Administration and Valente Library.

This is the first school within the state of Massachusetts to produce zero net carbon emissions by consuming no fossil fuels on site and having a highly efficient design to minimize energy demand. It incorporates the City's most significant solar array – 74,000 square feet of photovoltaic panels covering the entire roof as well as parts of the exterior walls and sunshades over the windows. In addition to providing a state-of-the-art learning facility, other site amenities include the Gold Star Pool, two gyms, two basketball courts, the Charles G. Rossie Bocce Court, five playgrounds, an outdoor splash pad, Cambridge Street Plaza, Valente Reading Garden, a learning courtyard/outdoor classroom, and a 380-seat auditorium.