Chardon Local Schools developed a new entrance for their high school to enhance safe access for all students, staff, and visitors. The new vestibule entrance at Chardon High School creates a streamlined experience and addresses the previous challenges from the original 1950s building.

The high school’s previous entry presented several logistical and safety hurdles. The main office, which wasn’t connected to the school’s entrance, required visitors to navigate a flight of stairs inside the building before checking in. This arrangement was not ideal for maintaining a secure entry point. Additionally, these stairs were not ADA-compliant and posed as a barrier for individuals with mobility challenges.

The renovated entrance was designed to enhance security and provide improved access.

A key feature of the renovated entrance is the addition of a dedicated office at the front of the building. This space enables staff members to check in visitors immediately before they enter the main school building. The office also serves as a convenient drop-off point for students during the school day, enabling staff to effectively monitor activities both inside and outside the building. It also reclaims existing square footage within the building, incorporating a ramp for ADA access that was previously unavailable. By keeping all these spaces within the existing school footprint, it helped manage construction costs.

The entrance now features new door hardware and access control systems, making the entryway more secure and user-friendly for both students and guests.

The redesigned entrance to the high school directly reflects the Chardon School’s unwavering commitment to creating a safe, secure, and accessible learning environment for its students. The project not only addresses immediate restrictions of the current entrance but also significantly improves the day-to-day experience for students by ensuring easier and more equitable access to their school.