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In 2006, school district administrators and teachers in Coppell were faced with the challenge of providing a customized environment that embraces a new digital world and provides opportunities for students to integrate technology with education in a collaborative manner. The leadership at Coppell ISD reached out to SHW Group and the community to form a committee that made practical and progressive design and educational programming recommendations. The end result was the repurposing of an existing elementary school that has proven to be cost effective and efficient for the district and supports the delivery of project-based learning so effectively that it has become an exemplary model for other school districts.
Designed for learning
By strategically removing walls in some locations and opening up others with glass, the spaces transform from stand-and-deliver classrooms to energized multi-use spaces for collaboration and student teaming. Learners engage in a variety of activities enabled by wireless internet and moveable furniture. Some rooms open directly into hallways to build on the educational initiatives of collaboration and transparency in the learning process. And glass has been inserted into existing walls so that visitors, students and facilitators can observe the learning processes in action.
Walls and floors are neutral or white with dark, open ceilings that reveal the simple existing roof structure. This is a cost-saving design feature that lends to the understated, casual feel and is perfect for encouraging flexible, real-time collaboration. Technology is highly integrated and almost transparent. Red-color accents on the walls highlight special spaces, including restrooms, media centers and cafeterias. The same red accent can be found in the lounge furniture and round worktables throughout the collaborative areas. |
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Facility
New Tech High @ Coppell
Client
Coppell ISD
Completion Date
August 2008
Size
62,700 square feet
Awards
2009 Gold Citation- American School & University - Educational Interiors Showcase
2009 Value, Process of Planning, Design, Educational Appropriateness and Innovation Awards-TASA/TASB Exhibition of School Architecture
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