Johnson Roberts Associates holds a kickoff meeting with MLK Charter School to begin a master planning study exploring expansion of the school building, with the team emphasizing they want to understand the school's needs without budget constraints at this stage.

Key concerns raised include:

• ensuring spaces are multi-functional 
• ensuring spaces are immediately usable for current enrollment rather than building out grade levels the school may not be approved to add
• the importance of having renderings to support fundraising efforts
• designing spaces that reflect the school's mission while serving both students and the broader Springfield community.

Current Building Utilization:
• The school is using approximately two-thirds to three-fifths of the existing building for their K-5 program (360 students)
• The gross square footage currently being used for K-5 is working okay

Specific Space Limitations:
• Lack of dedicated spaces: The school needs but doesn't currently have adequate spaces for special education pull-out services and ESL services
• Assembly and gathering space: Running large assemblies is challenging with current facilities
• Library: The school lacks an appropriate library space
• Gym/Physical education: There are limitations regarding gym space given the current structure of the building

Parking Constraints:
• The school doesn't have enough designated parking spaces for all staff and parent vehicles
• During events, they must utilize the field for parking
• The school tries to minimize on-street parking 

Neighborhood Context:
• The school is located in a residential neighborhood, somewhat tucked away rather than on a main street
• Very few students (approximately 6) walk to school; most are either dropped off by parents or take buses

The architects will draft critical success factors based on today's discussion for review at a follow-up meeting scheduled for Wednesday at 2:30 PM, with the overall process expected to take three to six months and potentially be implemented in phases.

Next Steps
• JD: Create critical success factors document from today's discussion and prepare to present at next meeting
• AM: Compile meeting notes and distribute if ready before next meeting on Wednesday the 13th at 2:30
• KS: Send meeting invite for Wednesday the 13th at 2:30 PM
• All team members: Think about what the school does well that should be reinforced and what they'd like to do but can't support with current physical space
• KS: Check in with Denise after the meeting to update her on the discussion

Next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 13, 2026 @ 2:30pm.