West Haven Elementary School

Narratives

Architect Narrative

The plan for this New Elementary is the second version of the District’s new prototype and features a unique classroom cluster which provides for an activity area and circulation in the center with classrooms and teacher prep areas at the perimeter.

The classroom layout along with the multi-purpose and media center was designed to greatly enhances the social interaction among the students and teachers who will utilize the facility.

The new elementary contains special education, ESL and ALS programs, music, art, science and discretionary spaces which will allow increased flexibility in the curriculum of the school. Together these spaces integrated with the classroom areas will embody a facility that will serve current curriculum needs and future changes.

Other important design features of the New Elementary School include the use of colors and textures in creating a lasting architecture reflective of the desire to learn through your environment.

A “small school” feeling was created by organizing classrooms into six intimate student communities. Activity spaces support project-based curriculum by accommodating multiple, flexible group activities.

The activity spaces are extremely visible to all classrooms, allowing team teaching and volunteer tutoring. Computer and Internet access is available throughout the Classrooms and Activity Rooms. A separate Computer Lab is located for easy access from all Classrooms.

The Media Center is centrally located yet viewed directly after entering the Main Lobby. Daylighting comes from four directions using borrowed light and skylights. The Main Lobby operates as a group lecture area with the large (125 student) seating area. A double door opening onto the back of the stage allows for one act plays, lectures, etc. The unique stage configuration opens up to either the gym or the dining room for daily use, or both for evening events.

Mechanically, the school utilizes a central HVAC system. This combine’s variable air volume reheat with gas-fired boilers and a multi-stage air-cooled chiller. The Administration Area utilizes a separate unit for cooling during the summer. Materials include: masonry, steel, horizontal profile metal siding, and aluminum storefront systems. Internal steel structural system is used in combination with load-bearing exterior masonry for economy, speed of construction, and durability.

Educator Narrative

The New Elementary is an interactive educational facility where the students distinguish between what is taught and what is learned. It was created to be a flexible, personalized learning environment that will accommodate individualized and small-group instruction and teaming, as well as traditional large-group instruction.

We have created a warm, inviting and stimulating environment which students thrive in. The kiva areas in each grade provide a wonderful space for small group interaction. Some grades begin each day by meeting as a full class in this area to “set the stage” for the day. One hundred percent of the classrooms have external light which has a positive effect on everyone.

– Administrative Director of Facilities