VLK Architects Principal Named to School Safety Group

VLK Architects recently announced that Principal Lauren Brown was recently named a 2023 Co-Chair for the Texas Society of Architects School Safety Work Group, according to a news release. The committee was founded after the 2018 shooting at Santa Fe High School as a means to address issues that state leaders put forward as means to prevent further incidents of violence in schools.

“Emotional and physical safety is a basic human right that can be fortified by the actions and abilities of those who can inspire change and implement proactive measures to protect the most vulnerable,” said Brown. “Engaging in conversations with like-minded peers in the School Safety Work Group is an opportunity to be that instrument of change in this ever-changing environment. As co-chair, I look forward to the opportunity to continue to build upon school safety resources and share perspectives from a bevy of school district clients and first responders, as well as best practices.”

The Texas Society of Architects School Safety Work Group engages in activities like researching school violence and potential solutions like state laws and regulations, and also engages in conversations with state officials.

“Lauren’s dedication to responsible environmental design for public education leaves no stone unturned as it pertains to the safety of all students and teachers,” said Sloan Harris, CEO and Partner of VLK Architects. “Her passion for safe and secure schools and experience in school design brings great contribution to this council.”

About the Author

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

Featured

  • Designing the Bridge Between Inclusivity and Independence in K–12 Schools

    Fostering independence is fundamental to learning and development for K–12 students. It offers many proven benefits, such as enhanced confidence, problem-solving, decision-making, and social skills. However, this foundational objective loses its impact if it’s not accessible and adaptable to all students. Inclusivity plays a critical role in cultivating independence and healthy autonomy for students, fostering positive student learning outcomes by uniting pedagogy with the physical learning environment.

  • Minnesota District Completes Renovations to 3 Schools

    South Washington County Schools in Woodbury, Minn., recently completed major renovation projects to three of its schools, according to a news release. The district partnered with Kraus-Anderson for construction services, and the upgrades were part of a larger referendum that voters approved in fall 2024.

  • Western Kentucky University Breaks Ground on First Phase of $350M Student Housing Project

    Western Kentucky University (WKU) in Bowling Green, Ky., recently broke ground on the first phase of a $350-million student housing initiative, according to a news release. The university is partnering with Gilbane Development through a public-private partnership (P3) to replace aging residence halls and modernize on-campus living accommodations.

  • Sam Houston State University Completes Athletic Stadium Renovations

    Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, recently announced the reopening of Elliott T. Bowers Stadium after an extensive renovation project, according to a news release. The university partnered with Stantec and DLR Group for the project’s design.