Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google

Schools Consider Return to Open-Air Classrooms

  • By Matt Jones
  • 02/22/21

Solutions to modern problems sometimes find their roots in the past. During the tuberculosis epidemic in the early 20th century, many U.S. schools used open-air classroom designs to prevent the virus’ spread among students. Now, during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, schools are once again turning to this model to allow students the fresh air and proper ventilation necessary for a healthy learning environment.

Wollaston Development, a site development and property design company based in Boston, Mass., recently released an open-air classroom designed for the modern age. The goal is to allow K-12 campuses to use existing, unused outdoor space as fully functioning classrooms. The design includes features like lighting fixtures, Internet access, power outlets, tables built to withstand the outdoors, and a video screen that retracts into and out of the floor. It also boasts a retractable awning and heaters spaced throughout the area for use in colder months.

Open-air classrooms

“Experts indicate that we could be dealing with the impact of COVID for years to come,” said founder and president of Wollaston Development, Michael Pallone. “Our open-air and classroom design provides all the conveniences of indoor spaces while helping reduce the spread of viruses. They are also beautifully designed and feature a mix of stone, granite and other natural elements that enhance the aesthetic of any campus or school grounds.”

Separately, the California-based NanaWall Systems has begun integrating its opening and foldable glass walls into educational environments. The ability to retract an entire wall, converting a standard classroom into an open-air one in one fell swoop, can increase both natural light and fresh-air circulation. Application can extend even beyond the classroom to libraries, gymnasiums, cafeterias, and other spaces on campus.

Schools around the country have experimented with moving classrooms outdoors during the last year. K-12 schools in Falmouth, Mass.; New York City; Hot Springs, Ark.; and Pewaukee, Wis. have all demonstrated its potential effectiveness.

“Even though I’m not taking my mask off, I’m getting fresh air,” said high-school senior Samaiya Bailey of Essex Street Academy in New York City. “I’m able to be more open and spacious, instead of being crammed up in that classroom.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • South Carolina District Starts Construction on $50M Middle School Renovation

    The Aiken County Public School District in North Augusta, S.C., recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the $50-million renovation and expansion of North Augusta Middle School, according to a news release. The project’s funding comes from the 2024 renewal of a one-cent sales tax approved by local voters.

  • University of Arizona Approves New Residence Hall

    The Arizona Board of Regents recently approved plans for a new residence hall at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Ariz., according to a news release. The new facility is scheduled to open in fall 2028 and have the capacity for more than 1,200 students, enforcing a new university expectation that all first-year students live on campus.

  • Wisconsin District Breaks Ground on New Elementary School

    The School District of La Crosse in La Crosse, Wis., recently broke ground on a new elementary school that will consolidate the students and staff of two existing schools, according to local news. Funding for the school comes from a $53-million referendum approved in 2024.

  • 144-Year-Old High-School Campus Debuts New Academic Facility

    San Diego High School (SDHS) in San Diego, Calif., recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new student services and classroom building; the project is part of a larger SDHS Whole Site Modernization project that began in 2022.