Schools Consider Return to Open-Air Classrooms

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

  • New Kent State Academic Building Earns LEED Silver Certification

    Kent State University in Kent, Ohio, recently announced that its newest academic building, Crawford Hall, has earned a LEED Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, according to a news release. The facility was recognized for its innovative design, water conservation technologies, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable construction materials, among other features.

  • Colorado State University Global, SCTE Launch Online Certificate Program

    Colorado State University Global (CSU Global), based in Denver, Colo., recently announced a partnership with CableLabs subsidiary the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) to launch an online certificate training program for broadband professionals, according to a news release.

  • Dallas ISD Debuts New Peabody Elementary School

    The Dallas Independent School District in Dallas, Texas, recently announced the completion of the new facility for George Peabody Elementary School, according to a news release. The district partnered with Pfluger Architects and REEDER Construction on the 70,807-square-foot replacement campus, which has the capacity for 550 students.

  • Pudu Robotics Launches AI-Powered, Large-Scale Floor Sweeper

    Pudu Robotics recently launched the newest member of its MT1 series of robotic floor sweepers, the PUDU MT1 Max, according to a news release. The AI-powered, 3D perception robotic sweeper was designed for use in large, complex cleaning environments both indoors and semi-outdoors, like parking garages and semi-open building atriums.

Digital Edition