Little Dutch Academy

Pella, Iowa – 2024 – The Pella Community School District, in partnership with Neumann Monson Architects, Garden & Associates, MODUS, and Raker Rhodes Engineering, completed a 30,000-square-foot early childhood facility to address a critical shortage of early childhood care and improve infrastructure at Madison Elementary. This project was funded by a bond referendum that was widely supported by the community. The project included a new playground, expanded parking, and redesigned bus and parent drop-off areas to alleviate traffic congestion and improve safety. By relocating preschool programs to the new building, valuable space was freed up at Madison and Lincoln Elementaries for other classroom needs. Challenges such as integrating the new facility with the existing campus and managing shallow stormwater systems were overcome through close collaboration and innovative design solutions. The project ultimately provided a long-term, community-supported solution that benefits students, families, and school operations alike.