Based on the success of Garwood Elementary School, Betty Kiefer Elementary school was designed using a slightly modified floor plan for this Rathdrum site.
The school was designed for 550-600 students and includes a combination stage, dining and music facility. The plan also provides a covered area for students to use for play on inclement days.
Bids for the new 46,000 s.f. elementary school were received in March 1994 with occupancy in August of 1994. The final project cost including site improvements was below the construction estimate including all alternates.
Materials for this school were chosen for their low maintenance and life cycle cost benefits. They included masonry and exterior insulated finish system. The building also incorporates an earthen berm that surrounds the entire structure reducing the thermal exposure.