Mankato Area Public Schools Center for Learning and ISG Receive National Design Recognition

Mankato Area Public Schools (MAPS) is celebrating national recognition for its Center for Learning, which was featured in the Fall 2026 edition of Learning By Design magazine as a 2026 Outstanding Project in the Early Childhood School/Elementary category.

The recognition highlights the district’s innovative approach to transforming an existing building into a welcoming, engaging learning environment designed to support the needs of young children and families.

In partnership with architecture and engineering firm ISG, MAPS transformed a former industrial warehouse into a vibrant early childhood education center. The project brought multiple early childhood programs and services together under one roof, creating a space where children can learn, explore and grow while families access important educational resources.

The Center for Learning serves children ages 3 to 5 and has the capacity to accommodate approximately 850 students. The facility includes 21 preschool classrooms, two parent education classrooms, a youth gymnasium, sensory rooms, flexible learning spaces and indoor play areas.

The design emphasizes accessibility, flexibility and opportunities for hands-on learning. From inviting classrooms to thoughtfully designed play spaces, the facility provides environments that encourage curiosity, creativity and connection.

The project also demonstrates the district’s commitment to responsible stewardship of community resources. By repurposing an existing building rather than constructing a new facility, MAPS created a cost-effective, sustainable solution that supports the district’s long-term early childhood education needs.

Construction was completed in three phases, allowing programs and services to continue operating while the building was transformed.

The Learning By Design recognition celebrates educational facilities that demonstrate excellence in design and create meaningful learning experiences for students.

The Center for Learning project reflects MAPS’ ongoing commitment to providing high-quality educational opportunities and creating welcoming environments where students and families feel connected and supported.

The Center for Learning is featured on page 90 of the Fall 2026 edition of Learning By Design magazine. Readers can explore the publication and learn more about the project at www.lbdmagazine.com.