In education, we know that many factors can lead to improved student learning in the classroom such as a strong universal curriculum, connections with teachers, and collective teacher efficacy. John Hattie’s research on the effects related to student achievement explores these factors and more, but often overlooked is the classroom environment’s impact on learning. The classroom environment can have a positive impact on behavior, discussion, deliberate practice, intervention, space, problem-solving teaching, creativity programs, and so much more! 

Building crucial connections can help students fall in love with their school

There’s nothing better than a wave of excited students filling your classrooms and hallways at the beginning of a school year. But how can we maintain that sense of excitement through June — including the January doldrums and end-of-the-year chaos? By nurturing students’ sense of school pride and the feeling that they are part of a community they want to belong to.

Your own spaces are telling a story. Do you know what it is? More importantly, who is in control of the narrative? 

Every space has potential waiting to be unlocked. To get there, you must first win support from teachers, students, families, and your community. That means crafting a compelling narrative about why space design matters and how it supports kids’ success, then marketing that narrative effectively. You’ll need to tell your story, repeat your story, and unpack your story to make sure it’s the one that sticks.