The Suquamish Tribe’s Chief Kitsap Academy (CKA) serves approximately 90 students in grades 6 through 12. As the first State-Tribal Education Compact School (STEC) in Washington, CKA makes traditional Native American education available to all students in the North Kitsap School District tuition-free, regardless of tribal affiliation. Educational offerings include weaving, carving, and native language classes.
The Suquamish Tribe called on Korsmo Construction to build a new commons building for the CKA community. The 3,785-square-foot facility includes a large multipurpose gymnasium with telescoping bleachers, staff offices, restrooms, and storage space. The exterior includes large overhangs, covered patios, and amphitheater seating for gatherings and events.
This project required careful cost control and value engineering. Through an integrated team-build approach, Korsmo identified cost-saving solutions, including limiting wall plate height to commonly available lumber sizes, reducing openings to increase thermal efficiency, and spacing structural elements to minimize costs.
The result is a beautiful indoor and outdoor learning and gathering space for students, staff, and the community.
