Ojibwe School
Wisdom and Knowledge
After years of planning, the much-anticipated Fond du Lac School replaces scattered facilities and provides a central, inspired place of learning for preK-12 students. Located on the Fond du Lac Reservation, the school’s design includes a turtle-shaped entrance and commons area. The idea for the school’s unique shape came from community input. The turtle is a symbol of longevity and strength and is the center of many Ojibwe stories. DSGW collaborated with the Fond du Lac Reservation on several projects and has established an excellent working relationship with their community of learners.
Together, DSGW and the community design team created an enduring facility that accommodates a unique curriculum and a wide range of grade levels. Students share many spaces; however, there are distinct areas for different age groups including a separate elementary school and middle school/high school libraries.
While the shape of the building is an obvious salute to the traditions and values of the tribe, the facility’s interiors are also inspired by the Ojibwe colors of red, yellow, black and white. Unique patterned hallway tiles and a student-created mural represent the four seasons.
The building is a symbol of community pride and will serve the Fond du Lac community for years to come.
