Abstract: How can school design spark learning to push the boundaries of traditional learning spaces? In this session, we will review the newly built Cornelius Elementary School as a case study to break down strategies in culturally responsive design to reimagine how we can design for more included and engaged learners. Located 25 miles west of Portland, Oregon, Cornelius Elementary School is a bilingual English-Spanish school that proudly serves a student population that is 88% Latine and/or Hispanic. In addition to being an educational facility, it is a resource hub, and a place for community gathering and expression. Through this case study we will share how our design team worked hand in hand with the community to create a culturally responsive and reflective outcome that can further engage the senses and enhance the overall learning experience. We will examine: how culturally responsive design in school environments improves socio-emotional wellbeing. How socio-emotional wellbeing can aid in creating a sense of belonging leading to more engaged students. And how flexible educational spaces can provide opportunities for hands-on learning, and emotional regulation. Through a detailed account of process, engagement, design, and collaboration, this session will outline actionable strategies to implement culturally responsive practices into your next project.

Learning Objectives:

1. Examine what culturally responsive design is in an educational environment and how it can support both building design and pedagogy.
2. Explain how physical environments can positively impact the socio-emotional wellbeing of building occupants.
3. Breakdown examples of how the design of educational spaces can be flexible to encourage innovative learning.
4. Review how landscape design can help with emotional regulation in early learners.