Entries by Anna Marie Burrell

Reviving the Legacy: How a Neighborhood Was Changed Through Education

On Indianapolis’ Near Eastside, the P.R. Mallory factory is a place steeped in history. For half a century, this iconic site was home to pioneers in electronics, electro-chemistry, and metallurgy. However, as the years passed, the factory was closed and fell into disrepair. The building is an anchor landmark for the neighborhood, and its renovation […]

Making the Grade in Lawrence Township

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve seen evidence of inequity and inequality with current events across the country. Along with these events, we’ve also witnessed a mental health crisis of epic proportions that is affecting young people. As a result, and to maintain stability with our students in K-12 schools, the importance of equity, equality, and […]

Building functional, collaborative spaces

Within the architectural design and engineering community, we often hear about learning by doing. Likewise, a major emphasis in K-12 education is on teaching students through hands-on project experience in the subjects of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). This can lead to programs based around community needs such as healthcare, agriculture, or even […]

Designing K-12 Education Spaces for Student Mental and Emotional Wellbeing | Part 1

Architectural and Interior Design Considerations     The mental and emotional wellbeing of students has a significant impact on their development and ability to learn. The onset of COVID-19 has highlighted those needs and the critical nature of creating a healthy school environment in all aspects. A 2020 Pulse Point survey of college presidents by […]

What’s Involved in a K-12 District Facility Assessment?

A facility assessment evaluates the state of a school district’s physical buildings and building systems, as well as their suitability for students’ educational needs and the district’s goals. K-12 schools typically undergo a facility assessment during the master planning or district facility planning process. The frequency of updating these plans, and thus undergoing an assessment, […]

Does Your K-12 School District Need a Master Plan?

The short answer to this question is, “Yes.” If your district doesn’t have one, or you have never been involved in a master planning process before, you likely have a lot of questions. Let’s start with the basics. What is a master plan? A master plan is a roadmap for the future of your school […]

How to Avoid Negative Impacts of School Construction Projects on Students

PART 1 IN A SERIES Proper planning is critical to avoid unintended consequences of school construction for those who matter most—students. Initiating a new school build or a significant renovation can be a lengthy process. Getting the project approved, perhaps passing a referendum, and determining the vision for your new or updated facilities is a […]

Designing for the Middle School Mind

Oh, how complicated (and scary) the mind of a teen works – emotions are high and attention is scattered. They may be more worried about the gossip in the hallway than the lessons in the classrooms. Distractions are everywhere, and it can be difficult to keep them engaged. But to be fair, it isn’t entirely […]