Image © Gensler
Teachers spend countless hours creating an environment for students to thrive in. Students are not the only ones who benefit from a supportive school culture. As lifelong learners, teachers need spaces to develop too. The teachers at Grant Avenue School in New York recognized this, but with 464 students and a busy schedule, there was little space for opportunities to learn from each other. Fortunately, there was 500 square feet of underutilized space in an old science storage room. The room was transformed from storing books and science equipment to become an active hub where colleagues share ideas and experiences.
The transformation began when the not-for-profit organization Change for Kids connected with Hillmann Consulting and Gensler to create a place for the teachers to call their own. The organization was already working with the teachers to maintain a strong culture. The project was familiar territory for the design team. Through initiatives like EDU 2.0 and Community Impact, Gensler supports not-for-profit institutions with volunteer activities, pro-bono projects, mentorship, and other activities that give back to the community.
The teachers’ dedication was clear from the beginning when they shared their experience in a visioning session. Their mission is to create the best setting for their students—no matter the time and energy it takes. A community of empowered educators translates to inspired students in the classroom. Research shows motivation plays a critical role in guiding the direction and quality of learning behaviors in students. (How Learning Works, S. Ambrose). The space simultaneously benefits teachers and students.
Known as the Teacher coLab, the rejuvenated space takes inspiration from academic incubators in higher education. The programming elements are just as applicable in an elementary school setting. Collaborative spaces like this help educators come together to share knowledge and enhance their skills. The multifunctional space facilitates think tanks, coworking areas, and acts as a forum for knowledge exchange between colleagues.