Reimagining Percy Priest: A School for Generations

Percy Priest Elementary has been a cornerstone of its community for decades, holding cherished memories for many—including JJCA’s own David Johnson and Julie Carpenter. As alumni of the original school, they fondly recall its innovative design and the vibrant environment that shaped their early years. Now, JJCA is proud to celebrate the transformation of Percy Priest into a state-of-the-art facility designed to inspire a new generation of students.

Julie reminisces about her time in the split-grade classrooms, where she interacted with older students—a unique experience that fostered connection and curiosity. She loved the open pod concept for 5th and 6th graders, a design ahead of its time. David, meanwhile, chuckles as he remembers a PTA dad’s light-hearted concerns about students “majoring in bathroom” in the free-flowing learning environment.

Fast forward to today: the new Percy Priest Elementary spans 99,577 square feet and includes 52 classrooms, a double-height library described by Principal Dr. Young as “the heart of the school,” and expansive outdoor play spaces framed by bioponds and mature trees. The library’s design emphasizes its importance—complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, a second-floor overlook, and a cozy nook perfect for quiet reflection or people-watching.

The school is not just bigger; it’s smarter. Color-coded stairs aligned with cardinal directions (North is orange, South is purple, West is green, and East is blue) help students navigate and learn directions and orientation. Sustainable design is front and center, with the project on track for a minimum LEED Silver certification.

Building the new school while keeping the old one operational presented a challenge, but our team, in collaboration with American Constructors, embraced the puzzle. At one point, the new construction was just eight feet from the existing building! Despite the tight quarters, the team managed to ensure a smooth transition with thoughtful planning and execution.

Set to open in Fall 2025, Percy Priest’s new chapter honors its rich history while offering students a future-ready space to learn and grow. From its cutting-edge design to its playful nods to the past, this transformation represents JJCA’s commitment to creating places where memories are made, and communities thrive.

We can’t wait to see what the next generation of Percy Priest Tigers will accomplish here!