Better Learning Through Design

School Among Those Built With Focus on Details Thought to Aid Achievement

As a high school principal, Bruce McDade is in charge of student learning, morale and safety. So he has become adept at interior design.

Bathroom mirrors? In his school, they are in the hallways, where image-conscious teenagers can be supervised when they cluster to check their appearance.

Classroom chairs? They are 26 inches wide, two inches roomier than normal, to keep students comfortable.

And, oh yes, the window shades. McDade and his team went with ones that block glare but still permit plenty of indirect light.

In schools, style is gaining substance. From the width of the corridors to the depth of classroom sinks, the smallest detail is viewed as a way to foster an academic advantage.

Advocates of improved school design, however, have work to do. They must show elected leaders and taxpayers that such attention to detail does not drive costs out of reach.

At Manassas Park High School, scores in algebra, geometry and writing have jumped since 1999, when students moved into a building with more light, versatility and open spaces. McDade said the school's physical features have contributed to those scores.

"That's exactly the message," McDade said. "The design of this building does in fact have a measurable effect on student achievement and student behavior."

Studies support what educators consider to be common sense: Students do better when they hear well, see well and are not packed into tight spaces. Noise, light, air quality, cold and heat have all been found to influence behavior.

Yet no comprehensive research ties smart design to achievement, said Judy Marks, associate director for the National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities.

"We have examples of kids whose schools were dark and dank and crumbly, and when their new school opened, morale increased, the community came together, teachers stayed longer. Even the football team got better," Marks said. "There are those anecdotal stories that can give you a glimpse, but trying to look for solid research on that is a little trickier."

Clearly, though, the conversation about school construction is changing, as shown during a recent meeting of architects, mayors, city planners and school leaders from 38 states.