by Scott Olpin, on July 15, 2024
In the heart of Wester School District, located just outside of Chicago, Assistant Superintendent for Operations Angie Smith leads a transformative journey towards redefining educational spaces. This K12 district, serving a diverse community with 50% of students on free or reduced lunch, has recently embarked on an ambitious project to introduce ActivWall systems across classrooms of all levels, from pre-kindergarten through high school. Smith's narrative offers a compelling look into how flexibility and innovation can reshape the learning environment, making it more adaptable, inclusive, and conducive to modern teaching methods.
A Strategic Shift Towards Dynamic Learning Spaces
Following a series of significant capital projects funded by a referendum and ESER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funding, Wester School District set its sights on ActivWall as its next major initiative. These interactive, educational storage systems have been successfully tested in various settings within the district, demonstrating their versatility and impact on enhancing classroom functionality. According to Smith, ActivWall's adaptability makes it an ideal solution for the district's varied educational needs, from early childhood classrooms to advanced Career and Technical Education (CTE) spaces.
Beyond Traditional Storage: A Vision for Versatile Learning Environments
One of the standout features of ActivWall, as highlighted by Smith, is its customization capabilities. Unlike traditional casework that limits classrooms to static storage options, ActivWall allows for dynamic organization of materials ranging from books to kitchen utensils. This level of customization is crucial for a district like Wester, where the diversity of classroom activities demands flexible solutions. ActivWall's ability to transform into different configurations enables educators to create tailored learning environments that promote engagement, accessibility, and effective use of space.
Funding Innovation and Community Engagement
Navigating the financial aspects of such an innovative project, Smith sheds light on how ActivWall's classification as furniture rather than a fixed installation opens up various funding opportunities. The district has leveraged title funding and sees potential in partnerships with PTAs or PTOs for further support. The minimal labor required for ActivWall installations offers a cost-effective way to revitalize classrooms without the need for extensive renovations, making it an attractive option for incremental adoption.
Enhancing Accessibility and Engagement Through Design
Wester School District's commitment to improving student access to resources is evident in its strategic use of ActivWall for in-class libraries. By increasing the visibility and accessibility of books, ActivWall encourages students to explore literature independently, fostering a culture of reading and discovery. Smith's vision extends beyond storage, envisioning ActivWall as a tool for creating engaging, interactive spaces where students can "shop" for books and materials, thus enhancing their learning experience.
The Future of Classroom Design: A Focus on Efficiency and Engagement
Looking ahead, Angie Smith envisions a continued evolution of classroom design, emphasizing the importance of efficient use of space and reduction of visual clutter. ActivWall offers a solution that aligns with this vision, providing ample storage while enabling flexible, dynamic use of classroom environments. By allowing educators to easily switch between different learning activities, ActivWall not only maximizes physical space but also supports a pedagogical shift towards more active, student-centered learning.
The Wester School District's journey with ActivWall reflects a broader trend in education towards creating more adaptable, engaging, and inclusive learning environments. Through strategic planning, innovative funding approaches, and a focus on customization, districts like Wester are leading the way in transforming educational spaces to meet the diverse needs of today's learners. Angie Smith's leadership and vision exemplify the potential of innovative solutions like ActivWall to make a lasting impact on students' educational experiences, paving the way for future generations to thrive in environments tailored to their needs and aspirations.