On October 13th, the Steering Committee was given the opportunity to tour the new school G.W. Graham. G.W. Graham opened in 2006 and utilized innovative building design in several area's. Room design was wider verses length, by reducing the distance between student and instructor, research has found the student is more engaged in learning. Part of the geothermal design included mechanical shutters on the exterior of ground level windows which enhances security as well as providing additional insulation.
Wider hallways prevents clogs in foot traffic during block rotation. Entrance to classrooms are accented by clear glass windows providing visitors to the class a view of current classroom activities allowing individuals to select the appropriate time to enter a classroom to minimize any disruptions to instructional time. The flooring appeared to be a costly expense for repairs and maintenance for things such seam repairs, bubbles and regular waxing maintenance.
G.W. Graham has 4 computer labs but continues to struggle to meet the current demands for additional computer work stations in all teaching areas. The front of each classroom featured sliding whiteboards with locking storage cupboards below along with additional shelving behind the sliders. There was a consensus among staff for this design feature which frees 3 walls for use to display student work and/or resources. In some cases, blank walls are used as a projector screen.
G.W. Graham incorporated certain design concepts listed in readings of the 21st century classroom as observed in the science lab. Gas outlets and sinks are installed around the perimeter of the room. Desks and chairs are raised in height and
accommodate groups of 4 students per desk. All furnishing is mobile allowing instructional area to be reconfigured for future instructional needs.
Wifi was not available in all area's of the school and not all classrooms design included projectors or smart boards and the cost of installation at later dates is not cost effective. Floor power outlets should be considered with a locking mechanism for security.
G.W. Graham features 2 gyms. One of the gyms featured high windows on exterior walls which provided ample space for spectators, however, problems were experienced with the mechanics
for the system. Storage did not hinder complete use of the gym area. Limited storage in various locations was an expressed concern, however, consideration should be given to providing surplus may result in clutter rather than practical storage use.
Caged area's outside shops are essential when working with paints and gases. Chain link design is not sufficient security for the downtown location so
CSS may require stronger reinforcement. The office reception area design lacks the clarity of where visitors and/or students are to report. Reception desk and computer located so staff has back to window a visitor should report to. All clerical staff sit facing foyer but have their backs to staff members requiring assistance in the office area. Clerical area may benefit from slightly higher dividers. Principal and Vice Principals office area was sufficient but Business Managers office was far to small but the location of the office area's was well planned. The Counselling area had a very nice reception area and work space for students as well as private office area. The staff at Graham felt this area should be connected to office area and Career planning. The L.A. space included a very nice office but found the work area for students to be limited.
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On October 13th, the Steering Committee was given the opportunity to tour the new school G.W. Graham. G.W. Graham opened in 2006 and utilized innovative building design in several area's. Room design was wider verses length, by reducing the distance between student and instructor, research has found the student is more engaged in learning. Part of the geothermal design included mechanical shutters on the exterior of ground level windows which enhances security as well as providing additional insulation.
Wider hallways prevents clogs in foot traffic during block rotation. Entrance to classrooms are accented by clear glass windows providing visitors to the class a view of current classroom activities allowing individuals to select the appropriate time to enter a classroom to minimize any disruptions to instructional time. The flooring appeared to be a costly expense for repairs and maintenance for things such seam repairs, bubbles and regular waxing maintenance.
G.W. Graham has 4 computer labs but continues to struggle to meet the current demands for additional computer work stations in all teaching areas. The front of each classroom featured sliding whiteboards with locking storage cupboards below along with additional shelving behind the sliders. There was a consensus among staff for this design feature which frees 3 walls for use to display student work and/or resources. In some cases, blank walls are used as a projector screen.
G.W. Graham incorporated certain design concepts listed in readings of the 21st century classroom as observed in the science lab. Gas outlets and sinks are installed around the perimeter of the room. Desks and chairs are raised in height and accommodate groups of 4 students per desk. All furnishing is mobile allowing instructional area to be reconfigured for future instructional needs. Wifi was not available in all area's of the school and not all classrooms design included projectors or smart boards and the cost of installation at later dates is not cost effective. Floor power outlets should be considered with a locking mechanism for security.
G.W. Graham features 2 gyms. One of the gyms featured high windows on exterior walls which provided ample space for spectators, however, problems were experienced with the mechanics for the system. Storage did not hinder complete use of the gym area. Limited storage in various locations was an expressed concern, however, consideration should be given to providing surplus may result in clutter rather than practical storage use.
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