Madison, AL
James Clemens High School is a public high school located in the Madison City school district. This 83-acre campus features several natural features that Bostick Landscape Architects (BLA) highlighted for learning experiences. These natural features created spaces to foster community and learning. Courtyards with unique hardscape, seating on either wing of the school, a large courtyard overlooking the athletic fields, and a spring-fed pond provide outdoor classrooms and places for students to congregate and socialize.
BLA emphasized a blue-line stream with pathways and native plantings. Student organizations and the Alabama Wildlife Federation further developed the stream and utilized outdoor natural classrooms for student education about nature and wildlife.
A wetland onsite allows for additional education in the future. BLA used porous materials to help minimize runoff and create pedestrian pathways throughout the campus. BLA used large shade trees throughout the site to reduce the heat island. Throughout campus, BLA selected flowering trees that would bloom when students are on campus to provide stimulation throughout the day and school year. The site boasts two full-size baseball fields, two softball fields, two soccer fields, a band practice/lacrosse field, a football and track course, and tennis courts to foster wellness and sportsmanship for students.
With the City of Madison's growth, this school is now the largest in the state of Alabama. The U.S. Green Building Council granted it LEED certification, making it an example of great design for other school construction.
