COMSTOCK PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Comstock Public Schools students began a new chapter in STEM education in the fall of 2026 with the opening of the district’s new Comstock STEM Academy, Kalamazoo County’s first purpose-built facility designed from the ground up to support hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This is the first new building for the district in over 50 years.

The philosophy of Hydra (water), Terra (land), and Vida (life) all working together in the building concept, through branding and color choices in the design, and its connection to the curriculum was paramount. Designed around the way STEM students learn, the new Academy incorporates spaces that encourage experimentation, collaboration and project-based learning. Among the building’s specialized features are science and robotics labs with extensive workstation layouts, integrated sinks and retractable electrical cord reels that allow students and teachers to adapt the spaces to a variety of activities. Extended learning areas and flexible spaces along the main spine also provide a comfortable environment for kids where they can develop and nurture a lifelong love of learning.

The new building will become the area’s go-to facility for STEM education while creating opportunities for future partnerships with organizations.

GMB Architecture + Engineering served as architect for the project.