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

  • RIT Saunders College of Business – Lowenthal Hall Addition

    RIT Saunders College of Business – Lowenthal Hall Addition

    Established in 1999, the Education Design Showcase is a vehicle for showing off innovative — yet practical — solutions in planning, design, architecture, and construction. RIT Saunders College of Business's Lowenthal Hall Addition has been recognized with an EDS 2026 Project of Distinction award in the category of New Construction.

  • Cal Poly Humboldt Starts Construction on Healthcare Education Hub

    California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt in Arcata, Calif., recently announced that work has begun on a renovation project that will turn the Stewart Building into a new Healthcare Education Hub, according to a news release. The university is partnering with Sundt Construction Inc. for construction services.

  • Children walking along bright school corridor with motion blur

    How Next-Gen Design Is Reshaping the Student Experience

    The environments where students learn play a crucial role in shaping their growth in and out of the classroom. By centering design on well-being, flexibility, and purpose, districts can ensure their facilities remain vibrant community assets for many years to come.

  • Year-Round Schools Require Year-Round Indoor Air Quality Planning

    While many schools are out for the summer, year-round schools follow a more “balanced” schedule with shorter, more frequent breaks spaced throughout the school year. Even though this offers educational benefits, these facilities have less downtime for building maintenance. This can become an issue when facilities managers overlook the importance of routine HVAC maintenance and air duct cleaning services.