devastation

This CDC special education classroom provides core academics for students who may be significantly below grade level.

daily challenges

•Existing furniture was worn out, many years past it’s useful life, and inappropriate for learning

•The minimal toys and games in the room were from thrift stores or hand-me-downs

•Needed more storage to organize supplies and materials

•Large open room had no way for students to work individually, in pairs, or do group work simultaneously

design solutions

•Focus Areas: Divided the large classroom into smaller, structured spaces - reading, art, group learning, and sensory areas - where academic material is addressed at the student’s level

•Flexible Furniture: Students have the choice of where and how they want to sit, study, work, play, and interact

•Updated kitchen with new appliances for teaching life skills

•Room Divider: Allowed curtain to be pulled to minimize distractions

•Sensory Integration: Provided a variety of ways for students to increase their sensory input, increase focus, and minimize environmental stress

•Organization: Redistributed supplies and learning materials into each area of the room and provided ample storage

impact

•Life Skills & Independence: Washer, Dryer, and dishwasher enables students to learn skills they can take into their homes or prepare them for a job

•Safety: Induction stove allowed students to cook without the risk of burning themselves

•Increased Focus: Flexible seating and room divider increased the ability to concentrate on individual subjects

•Teacher Efficiency: New workstation with overhead storage and ergonomic tools increased the teacher and assistants productivity and efficiency

Heritage High School - Legacy Project