Troy City SD Middle School Reconstruction
Troy, New York
Mosaic collaborated with Urban School Facilities Planner Shawn Hamlin and Certified Educational Facilities Planner Robert Hendriks on a long-range planning process that identified a transformative vision for the middle school for the Enlarged City School District of Troy, New York. The team reviewed building aid calculations and drafted preliminary schematic plans based upon the findings of the planning process. The team also collaborated with the District’s CM to make formal presentations to the Board and all stakeholder groups.
The middle school reconstruction improved student learning and safety and fostered greater community in measurable ways. This project is an extraordinary example of how urban planning and changes to architecture and infrastructure can facilitate the transformation of the educational program.
Originally built in the early 1970’s, TMS lacked natural light and sufficient air quality. Circulation patterns were poor and did not provide enough sight for adequate supervision. Renovations include the reconfiguration of pathways to provide clear lines of sight for ease of supervision. The primary entry is transformed to better orient students, staff and community members. It also serves as a gateway between the community and the school in a welcoming fashion. The main atrium provides an informal gathering place and the adjacent “Troy Room” serves a more formal purpose for student and community events.
To foster collaborative teaching and community among students, staff and faculty, “small learning communities” were created and designed via adjacency, proximity and primary circulation routes. Each small learning community provides facilities for two teams of core teachers and an administrative and guidance team. These “communities” engender a sense of camaraderie within a larger school environment.
See more on this project at From muddle to miracle.
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