A Kettering-based school system has taken the next step in its expansion journey. The school soon plans to welcome over 400 new students in the upcoming years following the construction of its new facility.
The Dayton Regional STEM School hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for its new elementary building, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of its educational offerings to the Dayton region. The ceremony took place on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at the building site, neighboring the STEM school’s current facility at 2850 Donation Circle in Kettering’s Miami Valley Research Park.
“The elementary school project symbolizes a community-wide commitment to equip young minds with the skills and knowledge they need to be the leaders and innovators of the future,” said Robin Fisher, superintendent of the Dayton Regional STEM School. “Our expansion to grades K-5 will allow us to provide a STEM education option to the youngest learners in our region. We are thrilled to embark on this exciting new chapter and look forward to welcoming our first group of elementary students next year.”
The Dayton Regional STEM School contracted with architect and design partner, SHP, as well as Shook Construction for the building project. The 60,000-square-foot facility will house approximately 400 elementary students and 45 staff members.
The building design incorporates various elements, including:
- Four learning pods that hold classrooms, breakout spaces for collaboration and staff offices.
- Two innovative project labs that will allow young learners to create using project materials, STEM equipment and industry-grade technology.
- A launch pad common space that will serve as a key location for collaboration with community partners during project kick-offs and career lessons.
- A large multipurpose “collaboratorium” that allows students and staff to host culture-building activities, school-wide events, project showcases and extracurriculars.
- An outdoor footprint that is an extension of the learning environment, including a courtyard, wetlands and pond that provide ample opportunity for observation, research and discovery.
The Dayton Regional STEM School will begin accepting elementary admission applications this December for the Fall 2025 school year. Hiring for teaching and staff will also begin this winter.
Founded in 2009, the Dayton Regional STEM School is a public independent STEM school located in Kettering. The school currently serves students in grades 6-12, with a total enrollment of 790 from nine counties and 35 districts across the region.