Thompson Turner Construction delivered the new South Lake Elementary School in Lexington, SC, as part of Lexington School District One’s 2018 bond referendum program. The 128,000 SF, single-story facility was designed to accommodate up to 850 students in grades 4K through 5 and responds to the region’s continued population growth with a functional layout that supports both instructional efficiency and future flexibility.
The school is organized into five distinct wings to streamline student movement and reinforce age-appropriate learning environments. The main entrance serves as a welcoming hub for families and houses administrative offices and support services. Three of the wings are dedicated to academic instruction, grouped by grade level to enhance continuity and developmental focus—one for Kindergarten and first grade, one for second and third grades, and one for fourth and fifth grades. A fifth wing is devoted to elective programs, including art, music, and technology, and also contains the cafeteria and shared collaboration spaces.
Educational programming at South Lake emphasizes active learning through features like a dedicated STEM lab, outdoor patios, and turf playgrounds, which provide students with opportunities to engage in both structured and creative activities throughout the school day. The design supports Lexington One’s instructional goals by fostering a flexible and student-centered environment.
From a construction standpoint, the school was built with a durable steel frame and low-maintenance materials selected for their longevity and performance. Site development included the installation of a new bus loop, dedicated staff parking areas, and upgraded stormwater management systems to enhance safety, circulation, and drainage. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems were designed for long-term energy efficiency and ease of maintenance, aligning with the district’s sustainability objectives.
South Lake Elementary represents a long-term investment in high-quality public education and infrastructure that will serve Lexington County students and families for generations to come.
