Charleswood Elementary School Net-Zero Project | Hopkinton, MA

The Challenge

The Town and School District needed to identify the best long-term solution to replace the existing Elmwood School while addressing future enrollment needs, district-wide elementary education delivery, and potential site options throughout the community.

The Solution

VERTEX supported the feasibility process, which evaluated multiple grade enrollment scenarios, district-wide education models, and eight potential sites before the Town and Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) approved a new Charleswood Elementary School on the existing Hayden Rowe site. The project includes modern spaces for STEAM, academics, recreation, and music and arts education, while targeting net-zero energy performance through geothermal wells and photovoltaic arrays.

The Outcome

The Charleswood Elementary School design achieved PHIUS certification, making it one of the largest certified passive house elementary school designs in the United States at the time of certification. Construction is underway with an anticipated Fall 2027 opening.