K-12 School Design

K-12

At SMMA, we create learning environments that inspire student agency, embrace their individuality, and build a sense of safety and belonging—both in smaller cohorts and across the entire school community.

Designing for education is, in itself, an act of continuous learning. In our K-12 group, we study the latest academic practices, collaborating with clients to address their unique needs and uncover new opportunities to support next-generation learning. Elevated by SMMA’s multi-disciplinary model, we support students and educators by finding the right solutions for wellness, health, and net-zero energy goals.

Questions? Contact:

Matt Rice, AIA, ALEP, LEED AP BD+C, MCPPO

Email 617.520.9489

Waltham High School

A new comprehensive high school blending traditional academics with Career and Technical Education (CTE) spaces in Waltham, MA

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We craft spaces that foster engagement and offer the freedom to apply Universal Design for Learning. We provide the depth of expertise, consistency of leadership, and holistic perspective that projects of this length and magnitude deserve. Because more than anything, we seek to create the kind of impact that’s worthy of every generation your schools will serve.

NBC Boston: Would you get your hair cut at a high school? Here you can — and customers rave

Hunnewell Elementary School, Wellesley, MA

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Inside the Design of Two Integrated Comprehensive High Schools

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Henry K. Oliver School

Located in Lawrence, MA, this addition-renovation K-8 school is the first occupied net-zero ready public building in the city

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Designed in All Dimensions

We fuse the principles of Universal Design for Learning with deep K-12 design expertise that optimizes every aspect of the school environment. From acoustics, colors, and light that invite students in, to specialized furniture that assists children who have difficulty sitting still, we imagine every need and uncover unexpected opportunities.

A4LE Northeast honored Concord Middle School with the 2026 Edward Kirkbride Award, the chapter’s top award for educational planning and design.

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Beech Street Elementary School

Located in Manchester, NH, Beech Street Elementary is the city’s first new public school since 1995, designed to transform learning and community life in a historically underserved neighborhood.

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Momentum is Building in Manchester, NH

Manchester School District has partnered with SMMA to develop a transformational Long-Term Facilities Plan. The plan’s Priority One projects are underway, which include renovations for four existing middle schools, Hillside, Parkside, McLaughlin, and Southside, in addition to a brand-new elementary school on Beech Street.

Explore the Long-Term Facilities Plan

“There’s something wonderful about designing schools that stems from the lasting positive impact we can have on people’s lives—not just the students and educators of today, but for generations to come. We’re creating places of inclusivity and civic activity that benefit communities and serve as models of wellness and resilience.”

Matt Rice, K-12 Market Leader

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A Story of Persistence

Overcoming tremendous obstacles including site, budget, and community challenges, the brand new Roxbury Prep Charter School opened in the Fall of 2025, successfully uniting both middle school and high school programs in one building.