The Bettendorf Board of Education approved a six-year facility plan that included demolishing the 62-year-old Mark Twain Elementary School and building a brand new space to house both Mark Twain and Thomas Jefferson students.
Mark Twain’s new 21st-century facility includes a learning stair, natural lighting with windows overlooking Duck Creek, learning pods, collaboration areas, a secure entrance, a new gym, library, and common areas. The new school is adjacent to the old school, which has been demolished for additional parking, playground and green space.
In addition, Bush Construction donated two custom shelves that team members thoughtfully fabricated out of a salvaged beam from the original school. Now, students, faculty and staff will be able to carry memories from their former school to their new school.
At the ribbon-cutting, Mark Twain Elementary halls were filled with joy and excitement. “It’s a new beginning. It’s a start for all of us in a brand new building. We’re excited to dig in and teach and learn in a new facility,” said Caroline Olson, Principal at Mark Twain.
In addition, Adam Holland, School Board President for Bettendorf Schools and Assistant Vice President, Commercial Banker at Northwest Bank said, “The team at Bush Construction did an outstanding job as the CM for our new Mark Twain Elementary School. From the moment we began the process, they were not just a hired firm, but a partner in every step of the process. Any issues that arose throughout the process were communicated in a timely manner and solutions were provided as well.”
According to the school’s fact sheet, the new school design brings more space, more light, more community use, and more flexible learning opportunities for the Bettendorf community.
