Dorchester School District Two, Facilities Assessment + Capital Improvement Plan

Dorchester School District Two in Dorchester County, SC faced aging schools and a growing enrollment. To continue their district’s vision of providing an environment that permits all members of their district to do their personal best — they needed a clear, data-driven plan to guide future investments.

Addressing Growth and Aging Facilities

Our team along with engineering consultants assessed the existing conditions of Dorchester District Two’s 26 properties, documenting architectural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and building envelope systems. We also reviewed ADA compliance, campus safety, and the suitability of instructional spaces. Teacher surveys provided valuable user perspectives on how facilities function day-to-day.

Planning for Safe Learning Environments

Midway through the assessment, the COVID-19 pandemic added new challenges. In 2020, Dorchester District Two asked for guidance on reopening schools safely. We developed occupancy scenarios, capacity analyses, and operational recommendations aligned with public health restrictions. These findings gave district leaders clear options for balancing student learning needs with health and safety priorities.

Dorchester District Two’s Data-Driven Capital Improvements Strategy

The district-wide analysis revealed which facilities had the greatest need due to age, capacity, or condition. We ranked priorities and presented multiple solutions, including additions, portable classrooms, attendance zone alignment, and new school construction. With limited available land, our recommendations emphasized maximizing existing sites while planning for two new elementary schools and consolidating high school programming for efficiency.

The resulting 10-year Capital Improvements Plan serves as a roadmap for maintenance, modernization, and construction projects. The plan continues to guide budgeting and facilities decisions, and its data was used to support a bond referendum that the community agreed to pass, supporting the successful future of their district.

Learn More / Read Our Blogs:

• Inside Out: Extending the Library’s Outdoor Footprint;
• 6 Ways to Get Community Support for campus planning;
• or, see more of our Library Designs here.