A groundbreaking ceremony was held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 for a new elementary school to be built in Elgin at the site of the former David C. Cook property, 850 N. Grove Ave., Elgin.
Designed with today’s learners in mind, the school will feature flexible instructional and collaboration spaces, abundant natural light, a two-story library, outdoor learning areas, dedicated preschool classrooms and more.
“What a privilege it is to be able to design and build a school from the ground up with today’s learners in mind,” Superintendent Dr. Suzanne Johnson said.
Made possible through the community’s support of the Unite U-46 initiative, this project represents an investment not only in a historic Elgin neighborhood, but in expanded opportunities for students to learn, connect and thrive. Construction is expected to be completed in time to welcome students in fall 2028.
Thank you to our students, employees, families, community partners and neighbors who joined us to celebrate this milestone.
The school will replace McKinley Elementary, which dates to 1887 and is located a half-mile away.