Lucy Garrett Beckham High School, Charleston County School District
Lucy Garrett Beckham High School, Charleston County School District is a 245,000 SF new school that accommodates 1,500 students and serves the Mt. Pleasant / East Cooper community. The small site posed several challenges including planning for sensitive wetlands, stormwater retention, and building orientation.
Spaces in the three-story school include a gymnasium and auxiliary gymnasium, an auditorium, a cafeteria, classrooms, science laboratory space, and specialty laboratory spaces. Career and Technical Education (CTE) includes veterinary science and building science, inviting students to gain first-hand and practical hands-on experience. Students who need a private place to unwind when they are overtaxed during a hectic school day can retreat to a “sensory room” in the special education classroom. Swings, enhanced lighting, and calming décor offer a break from daily pressures.
A central, secure courtyard is where students and teachers gather for a range of academic and social occasions. All major spaces open to the courtyard and encourage collaboration, learning and unstructured play.
A high school regulation-size track and field and two practice fields are on site for practice and games. Due to the small site, a tennis facility with three courts is located across the street. Baseball/softball fields are located on another school site nearby. The school is named for the longtime District Educator and former Principal of Wando High School, Lucy Garrett Beckham.
Check out our podcast Becoming Beckham: Creating a 21st Century High School featuring Principal Anna Dassing!