Middle Schools
Shepard Middle School Next Generation Science Labs
Shepard Middle School’s transformed science labs provide students with 16 cutting-edge environments for experimentation, small group work, traditional study and outdoor exploration.
When the State of Illinois Board of Education adopted Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), Deerfield 109 took proactive steps to support new ways of teaching and learning for their students. Fanning Howey designed the renovation of four traditional science labs to embrace these forward-thinking concepts in every possible way.
The built environment incorporates design elements specific to NGSS, allowing students to explore science concepts through flooring patterns, wall graphics, glass block walls and on-site renewable energy sources. Innovative STEM labs give students an immersive environment for experimentation and hands-on learning, with breakout spaces in the hallways to allow collaboration to happen anywhere. Wind turbines, solar arrays, geothermal systems and other sustainable design elements are used as sources for project-based information and teach valuable lessons about sustainability.
Expertise
Client
Deerfield Public Schools District 109
Location
Deerfield, IL
Scope
1,748 New SF
5,378 Renovated SF
Challenges
Renovate traditional science labs to align with Next Generation Science Standards
Meet program needs through creative renovation and adaptive reuse of space
Shepard Middle School Next Generation Science Labs
Wind turbines, solar arrays, geothermal systems and other sustainable design elements are used as sources for project-based information and teach valuable lessons about sustainability.
Shepard Middle School Next Generation Science Labs
The science wing is separately metered from the rest of the building so that students can track energy and energy generation by all systems. They can access the data through energy dashboards.
The possibilities are going to be endless. I’m just really excited for the things we can do in the future here.
