In October 2021, the American Academy of Pediatrics declared a national emergency of child and adolescent mental health, citing the rates of childhood mental health concerns.

As a firm, we are committed to designing just and equitable environments that inspire and support learning for all. We believe that designing for the highest need benefits not only those with specific requirements but enriches the learning environment for everyone.

As a firm that specializes in education facility design, we understand the importance of creating learning environments where all students can achieve their highest level of potential despite any physical or mental limitations.

This was more than just a classroom renovation; it was an opportunity to involve students in an authentic, project-based learning experience.

Today, efforts toward equity in education encompass a wide spectrum of considerations including sex, gender identity, socio-economic background, and ethnicity to name a few.

As architects of PK-12 educational facilities, one of the most illuminating things we can do is spend time in classrooms, observing or—better yet—participating in teaching and learning.

Field Notes PK-12 Schools Part 2: An interview with a PK-12 teacher who teaches 5th grade and 6th-grade math for a small private school in the Seattle area.

Field Notes PK-12 Schools Part 3: An interview with an assistant teacher for 1st-, 2nd-, and 3rd-grade students at a Montessori school in the Seattle area.