Project Overview

WCSD secured a long-term lease on the former John Rogers School in Tacoma, WA. Designed by prominent Tacoma architect Frederick Heath, the facility was built at the turn of the 20th century and was one of the original public schools in the state of Washington. The building had since fallen into disrepair. WCSD took on the site with the intent of returning it to its original purpose as a school.

The renovated facility was completed in 2021 and now houses Impact | Commencement Bay Elementary, an elementary school enrolling students in grades TK-1, with plans to add a grade a year until the school serves 600 students in grades TK- 5. While maintaining the building’s historic exterior, WCSD undertook significant internal upgrades, including updated classrooms, faculty areas, and a new multipurpose room. The cafeteria features large windows and a stage area for events. The campus includes a large outdoor play area and the entire building is situated on top of a hill with views of Tacoma.