Case Study: Rosa Parks Elementary School

Rosa Parks Elementary School

Rosa Parks Elementary School

An addition to Rosa Parks Elementary School creates a first-of-its-kind learning environment within the district.

The expansion of Rosa Parks Elementary School does more than solve a critical need for additional space at Middletown City Schools. The design aligns with the Challenge Based Learning model of the Middie Modernization Movement. Smarter design solutions include the use of circulation space as exploration areas, the incorporation of flexible furniture and the use of transparency and views to inspire curiosity.

– TRACY NEELEY, PRINCIPAL Rosa Parks Elementary School Middletown, OH

“As an elementary school principal, I had zero experience in design or construction. The Fanning Howey team helped me see a future I could not imagine.”

Challenge-Based Learning

ROSA

During the visioning process, Middletown educators identified the need for students to experience real-world, authentic challenges.

The design of the two-story addition embraces the philosophy of Challenge Based Learning by providing a flexible environment for students to Engage, Investigate and Act. The overall arrangement of the space supports Rosa Parks teachers as they extend learning beyond the walls of the classroom. Operable walls connect classrooms with central flex studios. Combined with flexible furniture, this approach allows the learning environment to rapidly change to meet the challenge of the day.

NOT A TYPICAL CLASSROOM

• Different-shaped table tops give students a sense of place

• Markerboard surfaces on all tables allow students to doodle and create

• Large classroom double doors and glass sidelights allow teachers to monitor the flex studio from the classroom

Student-Centered Learning Environments

The design of Rosa Parks includes specialized environments not typically found in an elementary school. This approach came directly from visioning sessions with administrators and teachers, who wanted places where students could learn to work collaboratively and feel a sense of excitement and pride.

OVERLOOK HUB

The Overlook Hub is located on the second floor and provides a place for small group work. The Hub is positioned with a view of the gathering stair and the first-floor commons, allowing students to see the activities of their peers.

GENIUS BAR

The Genius Bar on the first floor connects the media center with gathering stair and main lobby. It is the center of a large hub where a myriad of learning activities occur. The Genius Bar includes multiple charging stations, LED monitors and lightning bolt-inspired light fixtures.

PRESENTATION PLATFORMS

On the first and second floor, presentation platforms give students a place to perform or share ideas. The platforms are adjacent to a two-story glass wall. The natural light and views to the surrounding community create a great place for students to engage in play activities.

STEAM MAKERSPACE

A second-floor STEAM makerspace allows students to get their hands dirty. Mobile furnishings and overhead power support the most advanced STEAM projects. A blue screen also allows for student video production.

– TRACY NEELEY, PRINCIPAL Rosa Parks Elementary School Middletown, OH

ABOVE | The Overlook Hub has a dramatic view of the large mural at the addition entry.

“The use of custom spaces provides opportunities for our students to build their confidence and self esteem.”

Genius Bar

Innovation and Excitement

Middletown educators didn’t want the addition to look like a traditional elementary school. Fanning Howey designers responded with an exciting and contemporary design.

A large gathering stair located at the entry to the new addition sets the tone for the entire space. The gathering stair serves as a venue for school meetings and is punctuated by a large mural celebrating Middletown (Middie) pride.

The color palette for the addition has a neutral foundation accented by Middie purple and other primary colors. The overall effect creates an environment that is exciting, but not overstimulating, for young students.

ABOVE | The gathering stair is also used for district-wide professional development sessions.

“This project has brought a lot of excitement to the community. We hope other districts will look to the expansion as a model of the future of elementary facilities.”

– TRACY NEELEY, PRINCIPAL Rosa Parks Elementary School Middletown, OH

ROSA

OHIO

128 West Market St Celina, OH 45822 419.586.7771

4930 Bradenton Ave Suite 200 Dublin, Ohio 43017 614.764.4661

INDIANA

350 East New York St Suite 300 Indianapolis, IN 46204 317.848.0966

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