The 5th iteration of the elementary school prototype designs, Ortwein Elementary optimizes daylighting, durability, indoor air quality, and a low maintenance environment. Following the goals for a modernized learning environment, the design offers students and staff an enhanced and flexible learning environment to accommodate various learning styles and program functions as the school’s curriculum evolves. In adapting the prototype design to its specific site within the Southern Highlands master plan, the design team closely examined building orientation and program layout to accommodate for the long and narrow site. Because of the immediacy of residential developments around the school as well as the busy Interstate-15 on the east side of the site, the design team prioritized buffering solutions throughout the site to mitigate light and sound pollution while maintaining the school’s identity on traffic- and pedestrian-facing elevations.