Schools are a child’s second home. Understand that fact and you’ll understand why these buildings are so complex to build. While learning is the primary concern of schools, a lot of variables are in play if that learning is to be properly supported. Each student’s safety is important. Many schools now follow complex, state-specific safety standards. Aside from safety issues, there are pressing aesthetic issues: a pleasant classroom environment will result in lively class discussion and focused study. Schools in the U.S. and other countries build spacious areas that encourage students and staff to engage in physical activities, and the school thus often plays the role of a neighborhood gym. And, of course, many students eat at least one meal a day at school, sometimes more, and complex food service infrastructure also needs to a part of any plans. And building the classroom right, the first time, will help save taxpayers and school donors on long-term expenses when it comes maintenance and renovation.

Building a school is not an easy task, and that building represents a sacred public trust: you are building the structure that will nurture a culture and guard the promise of the next generation. Building a school takes considerable planning and consideration, to put it mildly.

If you’re a school administrator or a city official faced with this task, we’ve listed the best preschool and elementary school contractors for each state. We’ve looked specifically for firms with extensive experience in the area of educational construction. If you’re looking to build a preschool or elementary school in your area, there’s a contractor on this list for you!

If you are thinking about building a preschool or elementary school, we recommend checking each builder’s license with the local licensing board, speaking to past clients, and using our bidding system to get competitive quotes from at least 3 contractors. Getting multiple bids is the best way to ensure you get a fair price and that bids include the complete scope of work.

Choose your state

ALABAMA

Doster Construction Company

2100 International Park Dr., Birmingham, AL 35243

Doster Construction Company has been serving Alabama and Tennessee with excellent construction services since 1969. Its expertise in the K-12 and higher education market is evident through the numerous projects it has built in and out of Alabama’s borders. Doster’s building-savvy team has a firm understanding of the safety standards that each school’s location requires. Doster constructed the Peachtree Ridge Cluster, a 116,000-square-foot elementary school in Suwanee, Georgia. The elementary school houses 54 instructional units and can accommodate up to 840 students. Valued at $9 million, the firm paid attention to the quality of materials and to the overall structure of the building. The featured project is just one of the many projects that the firm has creatively, and skillfully, crafted.

Doster’s excellence in construction has been repeatedly recognized by the Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) with multiple S.T.E.P Safety Awards and National Excellence in Construction Eagle Awards. Additionally, the firm was also recognized twice as the Contractor of the Year by the American Subcontractor’s Association of Alabama.

ALASKA

Davis Constructors & Engineers

6591 A St. Suite #300, Anchorage, AK 99518

Davis Constructors & Engineers is an Alaska-based construction firm founded in 1976. Its service spans from pre-construction to precast concrete to wood frame structures. The firm has extensive experience in school construction, hotel construction, retail stores, and office buildings, and in rural and urban areas of Alaska alike. Excellence Awards in Construction from the Associated General Contractors of Alaska (AGC of Alaska) are an indication of the firm’s capabilities. Apart from awards, the firm’s growth is evident in its ranking in the 24th spot in Alaska Business Monthly Top 49ers list.

In 2013 Davis Constructors & Engineers completed renovating Sand Lake Elementary, a Japanese immersion school. Almost two-thirds of existing buildings were demolished, and the seven remaining classrooms, gymnasiums, and other facilities underwent a much-needed renovation. An interesting aspect of this school is its use of translucent light panels called KalWall, a direct import from Japanese culture.

ARIZONA

Waltz Construction

449 S 48th St. Suite #105, Tempe, AZ 85281

Education, retail, multi-family homes, and the hospitality industry are just some of Waltz Construction’s many areas of specialization. The firm understands that each project is special, which is why the firm has a structured and organized team for each sector. Waltz Construction builds for the future and is committed to delivering solutions.

The firm has extensive experience in building elementary and charter schools. A perfect example is the 42,000-square-foot charter school in Maryvale, Arizona, which took Waltz Construction ten months to complete. The Western School of Science & Technology caters to 600 grade 7 to 12 students. Waltz constructed the school, separating the lower and upper grades on each floor. A full-sized multipurpose gymnasium and outdoor field provide a space for physical education classes and other activities.

ARKANSAS

Nabholz

612 Garland St., Conway, AR 72032

Nabholz provides construction services in Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Mississippi. Founded in 1949 as a general contractor, the firm offers an extensive list of professional services such as design-build, preconstruction services, millwork, excavation, environmental services, industrial services, civil services, and remodeling among many others. Nabholz’ exceptional skill in construction has earned it numerous Excellence Awards from the Associated Builders and Contractors chapters in Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Currently, the company is ranked 107 on the Engineering News-Record’s Top 400 Contractors.

The firm’s education construction expertise is evidenced by the breadth and diversity of its portfolio. Take a look at the newly-built Lincoln Elementary school in Hoisington, Kansas, boasting 55,000 square feet of the latest in school facilities, including secure entries, a well-lit cafeteria, gymnasium, spacious playground, and large outdoor soccer field.

CALIFORNIA

Swinerton

260 Townsend St., San Francisco, CA 94107

Swinerton has been building with innovative solutions for each sector in every industry since 1888. The firm recently received an Award of Excellence and Award of Merit from the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA). Swinerton’s commitment to constructing LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) accredited structures has extended to completed structures in California, Colorado, Hawaii, Texas, Oregon, and Washington.

Swinerton was the chosen contractor to build the BVSD Emerald Elementary school in Broomfield, Colorado. Behind the school’s simple facade are fun, quirky spaces. The school’s floor plan is shaped by a fresh and comfortable concept. Bookshelves, chairs, tables, and couches were all reimagined as random geometrical shapes to add a touch of fun.

COLORADO

Nunn Construction

925 Elkton Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Based in Colorado Springs since its genesis in 1983, Nunn Construction has a firm understanding of Colorado’s construction industry needs. Nunn Construction specializes in building educational, healthcare, municipal, and commercial facilities. Tyson Nuun manages the firm in his role as its current president. Tyson was exposed to the construction industry at a young age and brought that experience to the company. Because of its excellence in construction, the company received the 2017 Award for Construction Excellence from the Association of General Contractors.

Nunn Construction completed the Legacy Peak Elementary school and Center for Modern Learning. The 97,493-square-foot school accommodates up to 600 students from preschool to the fifth grade. The expansive lot allows students to enjoy a variety of features, including a learning commons, gymnasium, cafeteria, music, and art rooms.

CONNECTICUT

Downes Construction Company

200 Stanley St., New Britain, CT 06050

Downes Construction Company is a family-owned business serving Connecticut with unique and advanced building technologies since 1934. Third generation leader, John Downes, oversees the company and its construction projects. The firm’s skilled and driven team ensures the success of each project through careful steps from pre-construction to continuing assistance after the building is completed.

Downes Construction Company’s online portfolio reflects its excellence in construction. Among its various works is a refreshed elementary school. The Gaffney Elementary School contracted Downes Construction Company to renovate and provide additional construction services. The New Britain, Connecticut school included a total of 66,000 square feet of renovation and 15,000 square feet of new buildings.

DELAWARE

Bancroft

1300 N. Grant Ave. Suite #101, Wilmington, DE 19806

Bancroft is a full-range construction firm serving the Mid-Atlantic regions including Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. The firm covers construction for industries such as education, healthcare, k-12, science and technology, and government infrastructures. Aside from building high-quality buildings, Bancroft is also a constant recipient of awards from ABC.

Bancroft built the first LEED-certified school in Delaware. Hanby Elementary school & Bush Early Education Center is an up-to-date facility with a total of 80,000 square feet. Some of its features include a media center, a special education wing, an auditorium/gymnasium, and an occupational/physical therapy room. The school is located in Wilmington, DE and is part of the Brandywine School District.

FLORIDA

Pirtle Construction Company

5700 Griffin Rd. Suite #200, Davie, FL 33314

From concept down to a structure’s completion, Pirtle Construction Company delivers excellent service. Pirtle has earned an admirable reputation among its clients making it one of Florida’s leading construction companies. The firm provides clients with a fast, efficient construction process that stays on budget and on time. Pirtle constructed the Dr. Phillips Elementary school in Orlando, Florida. The new school included 67,000 square feet of new structures over three phases on existing school campuses.

Pirtle’s has maintained affiliation with professional associations including the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the National Institute of Building Sciences, ABC, Southeast Construction, and the Construction Association of South Florida.

GEORGIA

Batson-Cook Construction

817 4th Ave., West Point, GA 31833

A century of unmatched construction service in Georgia developed Batson-Cook Construction’s strong relationship with its local clients. Whether it’s a minor or major construction concern, the firm’s teamwork has made it possible. From its inception in 1915 until now the firm has built more than a hundred facilities, ten of which are education structures.

Jack Lamb Elementary school is located in Tampa, Florida. The 98,135-square-foot elementary school serves as a second home to about 950 students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. Batson-Cook Construction collaborated with Holmes Hepner & Associates to design and construct the school. The new building is LEED Silver certified.

HAWAII

Ralph S. Inouye Co. Ltd.

500 Alakawa St., Rm. #220E, Honolulu, HI 96817

Since its inception in 1962, Ralph S. Inouye Co. Ltd. has contributed greatly to the development and growth of the construction industry in Hawaii. The firm works on a diverse set of projects from diverse industries including education, government, commercial, and renovation. Because of the firm’s excellence in construction, its name has become synonymous with quality construction.

The Rainbow Place, built in the 70s, serves as a testimony to the quality and durability of construction that Ralph S. Inouye Co. Ltd. offers. Also among its many projects is the renovation of the Central Union Church Preschool in Honolulu, Hawaii. The preschool was built in 1928 and nurtures children ages two to six years old.

IDAHO

Petra Inc.

1097 N. Rosario St. Suite #200, Meridian, ID 83642

Petra Incorporated draws strength from its decades of experience in the construction industry. As a leading company in Idaho, and serving Washington as well as Colorado, Petra upholds a high standard of quality. Jerry Frank’s ideals when he founded the firm in 1994 are still guiding the firm a quarter of a century later.

Petra Inc. provided new construction for the Connell Elementary School in Connell, Washington. The construction included a 2-story wing for kindergarten and second-grade students. A lawn and play area are also accessible from the east side of the upper year classrooms. Petra constructed an additional one-story wing which houses the music room, library, and administrative offices.

ILLINOIS

Pepper Construction

411 Lake Zurich Rd., Barrington, IL 60010

Named as the sixth largest contractor in the Midwest and the nation’s 64th largest contractor, Pepper Construction set the bar high for construction in Illinois. Stan Pepper’s extensive knowledge of construction guides the company. With his leadership and strong work ethics, the firm has built countless valuable projects in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Ohio.

Oak Grove Elementary school in Green Oaks, Illinois sought the service of Pepper Construction to renovate existing school buildings. The extensive improvement included an update of the classrooms as seen in the photo, lab, cafeteria, and gym renovation added with new equipment. Pepper Construction partnered with RuckPate Architecture/CS2 Design for this 21st-century school update.

INDIANA

Hagerman

510 W Washington Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46802

100 years of service and four generations of leaders make up one company with an exceptional history in building. Hagerman, established in 1908, continues to bring its extensive expertise in construction to the projects it currently handles. Jeff Hagerman’s interest in building and erecting structures started at a young age. He is now the fourth generation builder leading Hagerman.

Bluffton-Harrison Elementary school serves as a distinct place where the community, especially students, can come and learn. Hagerman was honored to be the design/build team to handle the recent school improvements and expansion. The firm gave the classroom space a fresh look, a new kitchen and cafeteria, and a much-needed expansion of the administration suite. All of the construction was completed during the summer months.

IOWA

Russell Construction

4600 E 53rd St., Davenport, IA 52807

Jim Russell started out Russell Construction with two employees and a business card. Jim’s hard work and dedication have caused the company to grow significantly, reaching over 180 million dollars in annual sales. The growth of the company sparked the expansion of its service in construction. Russell Construction’s client-centered approach gives the firm a chance to create and construct projects that tailor-fit the needs of the industry.

Silas Willard, in Galesburg Illinois, is a 73,000 square feet elementary school constructed by Russell. The school accommodates more than 600 students, including 50 in special education. One of the notable qualities of the newly-built campus is its core classrooms that facilitate better learning by focusing on smaller numbers of students.

KANSAS

Straub Construction

7775 Meadow View Dr., Shawnee, KS 66227

In 1920, Ernest Straub, Sr. built Straub Construction to work on the development of homes, churches, and schools in Greater Kansas City. Ernest’s passion for building was passed on to his son Ernie Straub, Jr. and later on to Ernie Straub III. Under Ernie Straub III’s leadership, the firm experienced substantial growth during the 1990s. Straub became a full-service general contractor for industries in education, commercial, religious, senior living, and multi-family residences.

Shawanoe Elementary school is among the firm’s many education-focused projects. The project included the gymnasium, classrooms, and library. The color palette focused on bright colors that promote a fun and engaging atmosphere for kids.

KENTUCKY

Branscum

90 Key Village Rd., Russell Springs, KY 42642

Branscum Construction Company is a family-owned business founded in 1977. Paul and Stephen Branscum led the firm to become Kentucky’s leading industry leader in commercial and general contracting. Branscum focuses on developing building processes that make each of its projects efficient and tailored to unique client requirements.

Aside from its affiliation with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the firm was awarded a Building for Excellence Associate of the Year Award in 2017. Visit its online portfolio and see the spectrum of works the firm is capable of completing. The Pleasant View Elementary School in Williamsburg, Kentucky is a project owned by the Whitley County Board of Education. Branscum partnered with Ross Rarrant Architect to build the 45,380-square-foot school.

LOUISIANA

The Lemoine Company

300 Lafayette St. Suite #100, New Orleans, LA 70130

Growing from a small construction company started in 1975, The Lemoine Company has experienced exponential growth. The firm is now recognized as one of Louisiana’s most respected general contractors, one that serves the commercial and industrial landmarks of the state. The Lemoine Company keeps itself updated with the latest trends in construction to continues to deliver to the current needs of clients.

Its portfolio is a gateway to the firm’s standards and construction ethics. The education industry is one of the firm’s specialties, and among their educational projects is the Live Oak Elementary school located in Lafayette, Louisiana. The Lemoine Company constructed a total of 105,000 square feet of the educational facility and completed the site work as well.

MAINE

Bowman Constructors

552 Moosehead Trail, Newport, ME 04953

Bowman Constructors’ experience in construction spans two generations of builders. The firm’s experience in all types of construction has given it a firm understanding of how the construction process can be made better. From pre-construction to maintenance services, Bowman Constructors treats each step a vital stage for a project to reach completion.

Bowman Constructors offers a wide selection of services in higher education, municipal, civil, and K-12 education facilities. Among its numerous K-12 projects is the Sedomocha Elementary school in Dover-Foxcroft, Maine. The project included new construction of an elementary school to house 350 students in preschool to fourth grade. A new joint-media center, a library, new administration workspaces, and physical education rooms were included in this newly-built school.

MARYLAND

Lewis Contractors

55 Gwynns Mill Court, Owings Mills, MD, 21117

Working on Baltimore’s diverse institutions — private schools, churches, medical institutions, and colleges — Lewis Contractors has firmly grasped the challenges that come with building these structures. The firm is guided by a LEED Accredited Professional, Tyler Tate, who has a wide knowledge of the construction industry.

Lewis Contractors has won awards from AIA and ABC for its projects in green schools, and as Contractor of the Year. As USGBC’s LEED program grew in prominence, Lewis Contractors started building more infrastructures with eco-friendly features, using green techniques. Institutional and academic projects contribute three-quarters of the firm’s projects. Featured is the Catonsville Elementary school in Catonsville, Maryland.

MASSACHUSETTS

Consigli

266 Summer St., Boston, MA 02210

Consigli is now on its fourth generation of leaders serving Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New York, and Washington since 1905. The firm is known for offering a wide array of construction services in the educational, scientific, historical, residential, and cultural industries. Because of its wide scope and stellar works, it has received more than a hundred awards, as well as recognition as one of the Engineering News-Record’s Top Contractors.

Consigli partnered with Arrowstreet to construct the Kipp Academy Boston. The 53,000-square-foot school is located in Mattapan, Massachusetts. Along with the project came challenges, Consigli had to demolish an old factory before construction could even begin. These challenges were met, overcome, and the new school now accommodates 650 students and more than 80 staff members.

MICHIGAN

Granger Construction

6267 Aurelius Rd., Lansing, MI 48911

Granger’s expertise in construction fused with its client-focused approach has made the firm’s name known across Michigan. The firm is under the guidance of a third-generation leader, Glenn Granger, a LEED Accredited Professional. The firm’s industry markets include education, healthcare, industrial, commercial, and corrections.

The Charlotte Public Schools is a triple project completed by Granger Construction in Michigan. The three-factor construction and renovation included 180,000 square feet, 370,700 square feet, and 354,404 square feet of new facilities respectively. The recent projects included new elementary school buildings for Parkview Elementary and Washington Elementary. In 2017, the firm received three awards from the AGC of Michigan, recognizing its excellence in construction. A glimpse at Granger Construction’s portfolio will give clients an idea of its diverse projects.

MINNESOTA

Adolfson & Peterson Construction

5500 Wayzata Blvd. Suite #600, Minneapolis, MN 55416

Adolfson & Peterson Construction’s skilled team brings together over 70 years of experience in construction. The firm combines traditional practices with the newest technology to provide work with the highest standards. In 2018, the firm received the Award for Construction Excellence from the AGC of Colorado, and awards including the 2018 Distinguished Building Award, the 2018 Excellence in Construction Award, and recognition on Engineering News-Record’s 2018 Best Projects list.

Castleberry ISD called for Adolfson & Peterson Construction for the new construction of A.V. Cato Elementary School in Fort Worth, Texas. The 80,000 square feet project can accommodate a capacity of 900 students from pre-kindergarten through the fifth grade.

MISSISSIPPI

West Brothers Construction

5716 Hwy 182 E. Columbus, MS 39702

West Brothers Construction is a leading construction company serving the Golden Triangle area since 1971. Ronnie, and Steve, the West siblings, are the third generation builders who established the firm. Under the brothers’ guidance, the firm experienced growth and delivered the kind of customer satisfaction that only comes from quality construction and expertise.

West Brothers construction and renovation services span across academic, business, historic, recreational, and religious structures. The firm enjoys the distinct characteristics of each project it handles. The variety can be seen in its detailed online portfolio where clients can see each completed project.

MISSOURI

McCarthy

1341 N Rock Hill Rd., St. Louis, MO 63124

Over 150 years of solid background and expertise in construction fuels McCarthy into building projects that will benefit people and their communities. With offices in different states in the U.S., McCarthy has a firm understanding of the unique demands of each site being developed. Some of McCarthy’s projects include K-12 education campuses, laboratories, university campuses, and government facilities. In 2018 the firm received over ten awards, including the Award of Excellence, and Excellence in Construction Award, and the Engineering News-Record’s Project of the Year.

McCarthy conducted a campus redevelopment on Madison Richard C. Simis Elementary School. The 72,000-square-foot school located in Phoenix, Arizona needed demolition of existing buildings to construct a new one for classrooms, a library/media center, a preschool, and new administration offices.

MONTANA

Sletten Companies

1000 25th St., North Great Falls, MT 59401

Sletten Companies began its construction business in 1928. Since its inception, the firm has experienced constant growth not only in staff members but also in the number of projects it undertakes. The demands for its services has led the company to open offices in Nevada, Arizona, Wyoming, and Idaho.

Among its notable works is the Giant Springs Elementary School in Great Falls, Montana. Sletten Companies used a colorful palette—including bright greens, blues, and yellows—to invite students into a welcoming learning environment. In this photo of the school library, you can see that this is a space where students will feel good about reading and learning.

NEBRASKA

Sampson Construction

3730 South 14th St., Lincoln, NE 68502

Sampson Construction is a design-build construction firm based in Lincoln, Nebraska, and has been offering construction services since 1952. The firm specializes in building college stadiums, K-12 schools, hospitals, religious facilities, and hotels. The firm’s admirable craftsmanship was awarded in the 2018 AGC Build Nebraska Awards.

Sampson constructed the 75,000-square-foot Western Hills Elementary replacement school on the existing school site. The school is situated in Omaha, Nebraska and is a second home to 600 students, ranging in age from preschooler to fifth-grade students. The firm built the school in such a way that every room will have access to natural daylight. Sampson also included multiple break-out spaces to facilitate collaborative learning.

NEVADA

Nevada General Construction

4121 Wagon Trail Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89118

Las Vegas-based firm, Nevada General Construction, is a full-service licensed contractor focused on commercial, gaming, academic, and industrial projects. The personal approach that the firm takes to each individual client provides the firm with a better understanding of the specific demands of each project. Lloyd Manning oversees the company’s performance and project delivery. The competence and timely project completion of the firm offers is the reason for its good reputation and repeat clients.

The firm’s online portfolio offers clients the liberty to choose a project and inspect the scope and quality of work that it offers. From minor to major construction projects, Nevada General Construction pays careful attention and provides exacting craftsmanship.

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Harvey Construction

10 Harvey Rd., Bedford, NH 03110

Harvey Construction started its construction journey in 1939. The firm mainly focuses on building in its New England home, where it has built a number of notable structures, including the NYNEX building, the Currier Museum of Art, and the Manchester City Hall Plaza. It has also completed work on the restoration of St. Paul’s Church in Concord, New Hampshire. Harvey Construction focuses on creating aesthetically pleasing buildings and does so in an environmentally friendly way: the firm incorporates eco-friendly practices and materials in its projects. And the firm does it well: it has been awarded two Best Environmental Building Project Awards.

Visiting the firm’s portfolio, the Falmouth Elementary school in Falmouth, Maine, stands out. The project, completed in 2011, accommodates the preschool to fifth-grade students. The newly-built 140,000-square-foot elementary building was designed by Oak Point Associates; Harvey Construction provided the construction.

NEW JERSEY

Fenton Construction Co., Inc.

5 Mountain Blvd. Suite #10, Warren, NJ 07059

Fenton has been serving New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania with reliable, strong construction since 1965. In 2017, Butler Manufacturing awarded Fenton Construction Co., Inc. “The Million Dollar Builder” award and “The High-Performance Builder” award, validating the firm’s excellence in construction. Under Michael Mulcahy’s leadership, the team quickly grew to be Central New Jersey’s leading contractor in the industrial, commercial, educational, and religious markets.

Fenton Construction Co. was chosen to build the Immaculate Conception school, the first Catholic school in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. The school houses classrooms for students from kindergarten to eighth-grade. A gymnasium, a library, and a full-service kitchen were also created.

NEW MEXICO

Bradbury Stamm Construction

7110 2nd St., NW Albuquerque, NM 87107

Bradbury Stamm Construction has built a reputation for quality construction through the entire life cycle of a project, from beginning to end. Since its start in 1923, it has been continuously building and delivering solutions to each client and the community that stands behind those clients. The firm values sustainability and efficiency in building, and these priorities are reflected by the professional team it houses, which includes LEED Accredited Professionals, OSHA 30-hour in Construction certifications, and a Certified SWPPP Inspector.

The Broadmoor and Murray Elementary schools are new elementary schools that were concurrently constructed in Hobbs, New Mexico. Bradbury Stamm Construction faced unique challenges in both schools. Murray Elementary School is located adjacent to a city park. The project includes amenities such as a multi-purpose area, a library, and a two-story classroom section. Murray Elementary also has classrooms for preschool students and special needs students.

NEW YORK

Skanska

350 Fifth Ave., 32nd Flr., New York, NY 10118

Skanska gracefully blends its expertise in different fields into one master project from offices, schools, homes, and commercial partnership projects. The firm incorporates green building practices in its projects to provide a more sustainable solution to environmental problems such as energy consumption. The firm’s growth since its establishment in 1887 is unstoppable, serving the majority of North America and Europe with top of the line projects.

Andover Public Schools partnered with Skanska to provide construction management for the new 106,486-square-foot elementary school in Massachusetts. The Bancroft Elementary School, which will house approximately 680 students, was constructed adjacent to the existing school. The construction took three phases: demolition of the existing school, site work, and school construction. Skanska ensured the inclusion of sustainable elements in its design, which led to the school’s LEED Silver certification.

NORTH CAROLINA

Metcon

763 ComTech Dr., Pembroke, NC 28372

Metcon is a homegrown construction company founded in 1999 in Pembroke, North Carolina. The firm started as a general contractor specializing in panelized metal studs and trusses. As the company grew, it also expanded into being a full-service commercial general contractor working on academic, medical, corporate, and government markets throughout North and South Carolina.

The firm houses LEED Accredited Professionals and is affiliated with the USGBC. Metcon’s excellence in education construction has been awarded the ABC Eagle Award – Best K-12 Education Project by the Associated Builders and Contractors. You’ll find the Sharon Amity Elementary school below.

NORTH DAKOTA

Gehrtz Construction

510 4th Ave., N Fargo, ND 58102

More than a decade after its establishment, Gehrtz Construction has become a leading construction service provider in North Dakota. The firm works closely with each client to provide a personal, detailed approach to each project. A step by step procedure from planning, estimating, to construction is implemented to assure project success.

Gehrtz Construction specializes in a wide variety of markets including commercial, community, healthcare, residential, and education. Among its education projects, the Dorothy Dodds Elementary School is notable. The 114,000-square-foot school is home to 750 students from kindergarten to fourth grade. Each grade level has a designated learning space and labs that encourage collaborative work.

OHIO

Shook Construction

2000 W Dorothy Ln., Moraine, OH 45439

Shook Construction is a full-range construction expert working in 13 states with offices in Ohio and Indiana. The firm focuses its work and service in five major market sectors: education, healthcare, mission critical, industrial, and water resources. Shook’s accomplishments in construction paved its way to be ranked among the Top 400 Contractors by the Engineering News-Record.

The Cedarville Elementary school in Cedarville, Ohio houses students from preschool to 12th grade. Shook Construction provided the construction for a new K-12 facility of about 112,150 square feet. In 2015, the firm’s persistent efforts were acknowledged with the Gold Summit Award from the Indiana Construction Association (ICA). This award, along with its previous projects, indicates the firm’s commitment to excellence.

OKLAHOMA

Timberlake Construction

7613 N Classen Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73116

With over 50 education projects completed in Oklahoma alone, Timberlake Construction’s extensive experience in this field is plain to see. Established in 1976, Timberlake Construction offers a full range of construction services and general contracting for a variety of clients covering a diverse range of market sectors and industries including corporate, educational, healthcare, hospitality, industrial, retail, spiritual, sports and entertainment, public safety, and municipal. Currently they have 50+ PreK-12 projects in 19 districts in Oklahoma, Over $224 Million in education projects in the last 5 years and Over 1.5 Million square feet of education projects.

Timberlake Construction partnered with Enid Public Schools and Corbin & Merz Architects for the construction of the Enid Prairie View Elementary School. The 78,000 square foot facility serves 600 students from preschool through fifth grade. Each classroom is constructed with a “pod concept,” in which classrooms have enclosed areas — pod spaces — which can be used for group activities.

In 2018, Timberlake Construction received three different awards: 2018 Top Workplace from The Oklahoman, 2018 Build Oklahoma Award from AGC of Oklahoma for their work on the Oklahoma City Zoo’s Sanctuary Asia attraction, and a 2018 First Place in Safety Excellence Award from AGC of America.

OREGON

Fortis Construction

1705 SW Taylor St. Suite #200, Portland, OR 97205

Founded in 2003, the firm has grown into one of Oregon’s leading construction companies under the leadership of Jim Kilpatrick. Fortis Construction’s skilled team expertly builds quirky education spaces across a range of levels, everything from universities to elementary schools. The education market is only one of the many industries that Fortis works in. Some of its specialties include data centers, healthcare facilities, and commercial offices.

Fun, explorative, and creative are the exact words to describe the Richard C. Alexander Early Learning Center at the Earl Boyles Elementary in Portland, Oregon. The 19,000-square-foot learning center was an addition to the existing elementary school.

PENNSYLVANIA

Wohlsen Construction

548 Steel Way, Lancaster, PA 17601

Wohlsen Construction, built in 1890, extends its service from senior living to higher education and K-12 education building. Its expertise in different market industries has been a reason for its excellent reputation in the construction industry. The firm’s attention to safety and quality is a standard it lives by.

Wohlsen Construction provided pre-construction of a two-story cafetorium and a new facade for the Montclair Kimberley Academy in New Jersey. The project included the interior construction of a commercial kitchen, a theater/stage system, some lobby renovations, and new restrooms. Meanwhile, for the exterior, additional parking lots, a new outdoor courtyard, and a facade renovation were completed. Wohlsen’s skilled team and their unmatched work have been repeatedly recognized by the ABC, Delaware Contractors Association (DCA), the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County, and other industry associations.

RHODE ISLAND

Gilbane

7 Jackson Walkway, Providence, RI 02903

Having been established in 1873, this firm has gleaned over 140 years of extensive experience in commercial construction as well as in cultural, environmental, healthcare, and education markets. Gilbane has built state-of-the-art facilities that promote better learning. With more than 145 schools built, the firm specializes in creating student-centered learning spaces. And the firm builds green as well, continuously updating itself on the latest trends in building and sustainability.

One of Gilbane’s projects is the 122,000-square-foot Bridgeland Elementary School located in Cypress, Texas. With safety in mind, Gilbane prioritized each student’s safety while building the elementary and high school wing. Collaboration and mentorship are encouraged in an outdoor area where older and younger students enjoy the natural space. This particular project was awarded an Honor Award from the Associated Masonry Contractors of Houston.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Trehel Corporation

935 S Main St., Suite #300, Greenville, SC 29601

Trehel Corporation has built over 1,200 projects in the last 37 years, proving its capability to provide South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia with premier construction services. Trehel’s growth is a result of Will W. Huss Jr.’s efforts to transform the company into a general contractor that can provide service to a diverse number of sectors in the Southeast. The firm’s expertise in industries spans from industrial, healthcare, municipal, and education.

Among its diverse education projects, the West Oak Middle school, a public school located in Westminster, South Carolina stands out. The school houses more than 640 students in the sixth to eighth grade. With young kids roaming around, Trehel ensures the safety of students which is why it constructs according to the LEED metrics. The firm aims to have a cost-efficient, sustainable learning space that integrates fun and provides a great experience for everyone.

SOUTH DAKOTA

Scull Construction Service, Inc.

803 Industrial Ave., Rapid City, SD 57702

From expansions to renovations of school facilities, Scull Construction Service, Inc. provides exceptional work across schools in South Dakota. Scull Construction is a full-service general contractor with site work, concrete, and construction specialties. The firm’s unmatched construction and green building practices continue to set the bar for contractors in the North Central Region.

Scull Construction built one of western South Dakota’s finest LEED-certified schools. The Porcupine Elementary School in Porcupine, South Dakota is a 74,000-square-foot school which serves as a second home for 300 students. The school was built in a modern manner. The building itself is built in accordance with LEED metrics to certify its safety. And the new educational spaces and media center provide students integrated opportunities to further improve their learning experiences.

TENNESSEE

Montgomery Martin Contractors

8245 Tournament Dr., Suite #300, Memphis, TN 38125

Cost, quality, and schedule are the major factors that affect project completion. Montgomery Martin and his team at Montgomery Martin Contractors expertly combine these and have excelled in each area. The firm ensures project success by moving gradually from project consulting to project development. This gentle but thorough process is reflected in the successful projects that the firm has completed across a number of sectors.

The firm’s portfolio is thick with diverse, modern structures. Take the Aspire East Academy in Memphis, Tennessee. In Montgomery Martin Contractors did a 48,750-square-foot renovation of a previous furniture store into an elementary school. It consists of 22 classrooms for students in the kindergarten to third grade. In addition to a full renovation, the firm completed the cafeteria, the library, several multi-purpose rooms, and a number of meeting spaces.

TEXAS

Cadence McShane

5057 Keller Springs Rd. Suite #500, Addison, TX 75001

Cadence McShane is one of the nation’s leading general contractor in K-12, healthcare, manufacturing, distribution, office, multi-family, and higher education markets. The firm’s unparalleled expertise on each project and client-focused approach resulted in its expansion, both in terms of revenue and but geography.

A notable education project in its portfolio is the Veramendi & Voss Farms Elementary Schools in New Braunfels, Texas. Cadence McShane completed a total of 93,151 square feet for the two New Braunfels ISD elementary schools. Each school is one story with a brick and stone facade, while its interior is a mix of blue and grey hues. Their construction included a library, multipurpose laboratories, a gymnasium, and a spacious dining area. The attention and competence of Cadence McShane gained recognition from the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) which granted them the 2018 National Merit Award and the 2018 National Excellence Award. Other awards that the firm received the past years are the AGC Safety Excellence Award and the Project Achievement Award.

UTAH

Westland Construction

1411 W 1250 S. Suite #200, Orem, UT 84058

Westland Construction is a design/build firm in Utah offering a wide range of services as well as a green/LEED building and consulting team. The firm has completed various projects not only in the U.S. but also in areas like the Carribean, Africa, New Zealand, and Canada. It caters to markets including education, religious, industrial, and medical.

Westland’s has worked with Brigham Young University, the Provo City School District, and the Dixie State University. Its portfolio showcases projects from universities to elementary schools. The Midvale Elementary school is an 85,684-square-foot project in Midvale, Utah. It accommodates students from kindergarten to fifth grade. Westland placed classrooms on the east and west side of the building’s central atrium.

VERMONT

Neagley & Chase

66 Bowdoin St. Suite #100, South Burlington, VT 05403

Neagley & Chase Construction Company was founded in 1984 to provide quality construction in areas of education, healthcare, food & beverage, and commercial industries. The firm executes each project with high-end and sustainable materials and does so with the latest innovations in building. This approach generates stronger client commitments and ensures project success.

Neagley & Chase understand the need for 21st-century learning spaces, which requires more than just physical space. The firm prioritizes the safety of students and staff before, during, and especially after work is completed. One of its featured projects is the Berlin Elementary School in Berlin, Vermont. Neagley & Chase renovated the existing building to update and address the building safety, energy efficiency, health issues, and addressed 21st-century learning environment needs as well.

VIRGINIA

Branch Builds

5732 Airport Rd., Roanoke, VA 24012

Branch Builds is a leading name in Virginia’s construction industry. The firm, founded in 1963, celebrated its 55th year in business in 2018. Branch Builds is a commitment-driven firm with special attention to delivering exceptional works both for the private and public sectors. The firm houses skilled craftsmen who use cutting-edge technologies and strategic planning.

The firm has over 40 education projects located in and out of Virginia. The featured project below is the Fort Belvoir Elementary school, a LEED silver certified school in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Branch Builds provided full site development and a new building with music and art rooms, a STEM science lab, multi-purpose classrooms, and a gymnasium.

WASHINGTON

Lydig Construction

11001 E Montgomery, Spokane, WA 99206

Lydig Construction has been providing excellent construction since 1956. The firm creates a project’s success through client collaboration followed by meticulous construction. From hospitality, special projects, and k-12 education, the firm incorporates a fresh face that is unique with each project.

Its online portfolio gives viewers a look at a wide spectrum of projects. Among the k-12 education projects listed, the Chester/Greenacres Elementary school stands out. The Central Valley School District property needed a fresh and modern renovation, as the existing 55,900-square-foot facility had been built in 1978. Lydig renovated the existing school and added a 24,000-square-foot space to house 624 elementary students.

WEST VIRGINIA

High Point Construction Group

643 Route 20 South Rd., Buckhannon, WV 26201

Two Tims started commercial and industrial building in 1997. Tim Crutchfield and Tim Shaw founded High Point Construction Group on the basis of decades of extensive experience. The firm’s excellent service and exceptional work explain its strong reputation among clients across markets, including in commercial, multi-family housing, industrial, and education.

Focusing on higher and k-12 education buildings, the firm has built a few schools in and out of West Virginia. High Point Construction Group constructed the education facilities of the Pickens School. The school houses students from kindergarten to twelfth grade. Pickens School is composed of a gymnasium, a cafeteria, a library, and a computer laboratory. Because of the firm’s broad range of services, it has been in a good working relationship with companies like American Energy Partners, Mountaineer Keystone, Statoil, Columbia Gas, and Eclipse Resources.

WISCONSIN

VJS Construction Services

W233 N2847 Roundy Circle West, Pewaukee, WI 53072

VJS Construction Services is among Wisconsin’s top general contractors. The firm, founded in 1947, offers clients a comprehensive selection of construction services, including in the education market, both inside and outside of the Badger State’s borders. Its specialization in education construction encompasses everything from elementary schools to universities.

One of the firm’s projects is the Oak Creek Forest Ridge Elementary school in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. VJS introduced a fun, fresh way of learning by creating a library with high ceilings, coupled with wide windows that allow the room to depend on natural light for a good deal of the day. The space allows students to read comfortably and encourages meaningful discussions. Because of the firm’s innovation in construction, publications like the Milwaukee Business Journal, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and the Daily Reporter have all praised the firm through various acknowledgments.

WYOMING

Wright Brothers

1343 S. Sheridan Ave., Sheridan, WY 82801

Wright Brothers is a leading commercial industry contractor out of Wyoming. The firm seeks to set a new standard in building, not only for itself but for other contractors in the area. This concept serves as a personal achievement for the team and has led to superior quality on each of its many projects.

The new St. Ignatius Catholic School in Idaho was named as one of the Top Project Awardees in 2018 by the Idaho Business Review. Wright Brothers partnered with CTA Architects in building this school which accommodates preschool to eighth-grade students. The 56,000-square-foot school was carefully planned and constructed in one year. The new school boasts a 21st-century learning environment with flexibility in design.

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Library Contractors in the US

Middle School and High School Contractors in the US

Museum Contractors in the US

University Campus Contractors in the US

About Our Rankings

This list takes a range of ranking criteria into consideration, including but not limited to: work history, customer satisfaction, awards and recognition, geographic area of work, cost, building permits, and clientele. We spent over 40 hours researching local contractors before calculating the final ranking for this post. If there is additional information about your business that could affect these rankings, please fill out this form and we will take it into consideration.

The Best Preschool and Elementary School Contractors in the U.S.