Antioch Upper Grade School is renovating the majority of the 100 and 200 classrooms to align to collaborative learning spaces that allows flexibility for the students and staff. The rooms will have a standard layout for whiteboards, Promethean boards, and outlets. Each will have new tile, paint, ceiling lights, student desks, chairs, and storage. The furniture will be mobile to allow for quick transitions for grouping and class activities permitting more opportunities to collaborate.
The bathrooms and locker rooms will be remodeled to bring them to a modern day standard in design and ADA compliance. The main entrance will be redesigned to provide a more secure entry into the school for visitors. The bleachers in the gym will be replaced and be ADA compliant for students and guests. Additional work being done includes, updated plumbing, electrical infrastructure, improved fire alarm system and emergency back-up lighting.
The renovations will provide a happier and more engaging place for our students to learn and for our teachers and staff to work. Believe it or not, there is a lot of research proving how something as simple as having better lighting in a classroom will improve students’ learning outcomes.
The updates will also make it easier to take advantage of the new technology available for our students and teachers.
These renovations will also provide a safer environment by enhancing our accommodations for those with physical disabilities and providing a more secure visitor entry.
New classroom furniture will include tables and chairs that are easier for students to get in and out of and easier to move around. Back in 1970, it was typical to see classrooms where students were lined up in rows learning from teachers giving a lecture at the front of the room. Research tells us that students need opportunities to collaborate and work in groups of a variety of sizes. The flexible furniture will make it easier for our classes to move and adjust seating arrangements.
Finally, while funding for the renovation includes work on items such as plumbing and electrical work, upgrading this work will save us time and money in repairs down the road. Just like someone who owns their own home, we want to continue to proactively improve our facilities.
