Garden City Elementary is an exemplar of a future-ready, learner-centered school that reimagines the traditional educational environment. With a dynamic variety of spaces, incredible attention to detail for sound and lighting, and thoughtful connections to nature, the school stands as a testament to a district committed to cultivating equity, wellness, and inclusion.

Developed in collaboration with Cranston Public Schools, this innovative design aligns with the challenges of a competitive, technology-driven global landscape, embracing 21st-century learning principles: student-centered, inquiry-based, technology-rich, interdisciplinary, collaborative, and personalized education.

Breaking away from the conventional “Cells and Bells” model, the school discards the traditional corridor-dominated structure. The design eliminates standard corridors, replacing them with interconnected, socially flexible common areas. This layout fosters active learning environments that extend beyond the confines of traditional classrooms.

At the core is the innovative concept of Learning Communities. These communities are centered around vibrant Learning Commons, which function as both the social and educational heart of the school. Integral to this concept are diverse learning spaces, including an array of room sizes and types such as learning studios, small group rooms, and seminar spaces. These spaces are thoughtfully designed to replace traditional classrooms, catering to a variety of learning styles and group dynamics. Additionally, the school integrates flexible furnishings and advanced technology, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to become independent thinkers, collaborators, and problem-solvers. Complementing these academic spaces is a whimsical Cafeteria and Kiva, which are pivotal in creating a social hub within the school. These areas are designed to support various activities including socialization, exhibitions, informal presentations, and both independent and collaborative study, thereby transforming into a lively social heart for the entire school community.

This modern educational model also brings about a significant shift in teaching practices. One of the key changes is the formation of cross-functional educator teams, moving away from the traditional notion of a single teacher being responsible for a classroom. This collaborative approach significantly enhances the collective support for student growth and development. In line with this, the model facilitates flexible learning selection, allowing both teachers and students to choose spaces that best align with their learning objectives and the type of cognitive engagement required. This represents a departure from the conventional, static classroom setting. Additionally, the design incorporates collaborative educator workspaces. These shared areas are not just for administrative tasks but are envisioned as dynamic spaces for real-time professional development and collaboration among teachers, further enriching the educational experience at Garden City Elementary.

The redesign of Garden City Elementary School is a forward-thinking approach to education, creating a versatile and dynamic learning environment. It stands as a model for future educational designs, prioritizing flexibility, collaboration, and a holistic approach to student development in a technology-rich world.