By Courtney Schmitz

When Mississippi State University (MSU) gave final approval for renovations to expand the premium seating options at Dudy Noble Field in the winter of 2024, the directive was clear: complete the upgrades in time for the highly anticipated home baseball series against in-state rival Ole Miss. With just six weeks from approval to completion, the turnaround time left little room for error.

A Flexible Seating Solution

University stakeholders sought to improve the game-day experience at the MSU Bulldogs’ home stadium, which holds the NCAA on-campus attendance record of 16,423. At the same time, they wanted to avoid committing to a static, single-use solution. The goal was to create a flexible solution that could deliver a strong return on investment while enhancing the game-day experience for a loyal fanbase that has supported the team and Dudy Noble Field for decades.

To meet these objectives, the university worked with Sightline, which offers the Flex Suite system, a modular premium seating solution designed for flexibility and scalability. Built on a forkliftable aluminum frame, the system is designed for rapid deployment, reconfiguration and transport, whether within a single venue or across campus. Delivered as fully assembled units, each section integrates platforms, railings and seating into a single structure, with customizable and optional features like signage, drink railing, TVs and fridges. This approach minimized on-site construction and enabled a faster installation without sacrificing functionality or quality.

An Enhanced Fan Experience

The team carefully chose materials and finishes that are durable enough to withstand outdoor conditions while blending seamlessly with the stadium’s existing structural elements. Custom fabrication capabilities allowed Sightline to incorporate tailored design elements in-house. A decorative speckled walking surface, custom cable railing and integrated drink rails contributed to a more premium environment while maintaining the system’s flexibility.

Additional enhancements further elevated the experience. Integrated drink rails with custom acrylic backsplashes and Di-Noc infill panels were installed to reinforce a cohesive, premium aesthetic. Despite the compressed timeline, the renovations were completed in time for the Ole Miss series, one of MSU’s most electric sporting events of the year, which the Bulldogs ultimately won.

Scaling and Evaluating the Solution

Based on the positive feedback from fans and university staff, MSU expanded the Flex Suite concept beyond its baseball facility. What began as a fast-track solution for Dudy Noble Field quickly proved its value as a cross-venue strategy. Flex Suite was later introduced to Humphrey Coliseum, home to the university’s men’s and women’s basketball teams. This transition from an outdoor stadium to an indoor arena highlighted the system’s adaptability.

Adapting the system for “the Hump” required targeted modifications to align with the venue’s layout. Additional infill platforms and step units were installed to ensure seamless integration within the arena, while a dedicated concessions area exclusive to the Flex Suite sections at Humphrey Coliseum allowed the university to offer a differentiated experience at an affordable price point.

This project also provided an opportunity to evaluate the system in real-world conditions. By observing fan interactions and gathering feedback during the baseball season, the team identified opportunities for refinement. Insights from Dudy Noble Field informed adjustments that further improved comfort and usability when the system was implemented at Humphrey Coliseum.

Looking Longterm

As colleges and universities continue investing in athletic facilities, balancing premium experiences with long-term flexibility is becoming increasingly important. Solutions like Flex Suite that can adapt across venues and evolving programs offer a strategic alternative to traditional fixed construction, which may be difficult or costly to modify in the future.

At Mississippi State University, what began as a time-sensitive installation evolved into a scalable model for premium seating across campus while also creating new revenue opportunities. Collaboration with university stakeholders enabled the team to deliver a solution that met immediate demands for the Ole Miss series while supporting future use across athletic programs.

Courtney Schmitz is Director of Sales at Sightline Commercial Solutions.

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By Herschel Acosta, CCM

Disaster recovery is a word often heard, but few truly experience firsthand. Whether it’s a hurricane, flood, tornado, chemical/biological risks, or man-made event, the threat of disaster, whether visible or invisible, is real enough to demand preparedness.

Facility managers play a pivotal role in how well a school weathers and recovers from a crisis. Preparation determines resilience.

Below are a few principles that can help facility managers prepare for the disasters that they hope will never come, but must always be ready for:

1. Pre-Event Planning

A good offense begins with a strong defense. The foundation of resilience lies in risk assessment, hazard mapping, and training.

Every region has its own threats. Coastal areas face hurricanes, the central U.S. deals with tornadoes, and sadly, schools everywhere must now consider active-shooter scenarios. Other facilities may face chemical hazards from nearby manufacturing plants or recurring flooding. The key is to identify local risks and understand a school’s vulnerabilities.

Once the risks are mapped, the next step is to develop an emergency operations plan tailored to each campus—not a generic binder, but a living document aligned with their district’s resources and the capabilities of local fire, police, and emergency response teams.

If possible, facility managers should conduct walkthroughs with first responders. These site visits often reveal insights that can’t be captured in a plan alone. Some districts may even benefit from a central emergency operations hub that coordinates real-time information from all campuses. The more coordination and clarity built before a crisis, the more confident the team will be when it matters most.

2. During the Event

When a disaster unfolds, communication and calm execution make all the difference.

The biggest hurdle in any emergency is often information—too little, too late. Rumors spread faster than facts, and uncertainty erodes trust. That’s why it’s critical to establish and test communication protocols in advance. Determine who the spokesperson will be—superintendent, communications director, or a joint task force—and make sure messages are clear, consistent, and timely.

Equally important are the physical response protocols: evacuation, shelter-in-place, and lockdown. Far removed from the fire drills of years gone by, today’s risks require broader readiness. Practice both evacuation and shelter-in-place scenarios so that staff and students understand their roles.

One lesson that stands out came from the Columbine tragedy, when responders discovered that some teachers and students didn’t know their room numbers during emergency calls. Something as simple as numbering rooms visibly on the interior can make communication faster and more effective when seconds count.

3. Post-Event Recovery

Once the crisis has passed, the work is far from over. Recovery begins with safety inspections and rapid condition assessments to ensure that facilities are structurally sound. Then comes the logistical challenge of restoring learning continuity—through temporary classrooms, remote instruction, or staggered schedules—while repairs are underway.

Prioritize repairs to critical infrastructure first: water, HVAC, IT systems, and power. Document every step for insurance and reimbursement. These records become invaluable when working with FEMA or other agencies.

4. Codes, Costs, and the Fine Print

Resilience is as much about planning as it is about funding. Many states now require storm shelters as part of new school construction or major renovations; new codes may mandate that gymnasiums or other spaces double as tornado shelters.

Each funding source—federal, state, or private—comes with conditions. Understand those obligations early to avoid surprises later.

FEMA, for example, typically funds repairs to restore a building to its pre-disaster condition—not to upgrade it. That distinction matters when planning both immediate recovery and long-term resilience.

Closing Reflections

Disaster recovery is not just about responding to tragedy—it’s about building confidence in a community’s ability to endure and rebuild.

Schools are not just facilities; they are centers of life, learning, and hope. When disaster strikes, the speed and quality of recovery depend on foresight, relationships, and disciplined preparation.

Preparedness isn’t just a plan—it’s a mindset. In the words of President John F. Kennedy, “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.”

The best time to prepare for the next emergency is now—when the skies are clear and there’s time to focus on foresight instead of recovery.

Herschel Acosta, CCM, is Senior Vice President for KAI 360 a program and project management firm.��

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By��Alexandra��Korestski��IIDA, NCIDQ,��and��William Wong,��AIA,��LEED AP��

How can school construction project teams tap into student creativity��and��make��their��project itself��a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience? In an East Coast STEAM school expansion build-out, school leaders and contractors, along with architects and interior designers from��Spacesmith, put the entire high school body in the driver’s seat to design their future.��

As designer and architect for this endeavor, the team learned to advocate for high school students in a new way. The process offers “a roadmap for student advocacy and championing schools by letting students be an integrated part of their facility planning and design,”��according to the local AIA chapter.��Designed��like��a STEAM workplace, the result — the����in the Brooklyn Navy Yard,��a New York City Public School��— is a “school built��with��students,��for��students,”��and a replicable process for high schools around the country.��

The roadmap for advancing student outcomes is anchored in the integration of curricular goals and enrichment planning with the design and construction of the school itself.��In this��case, the��school leaders envisioned their��STEAM Center to��resemble��a workplace,��an environment for��students��to��be treated as young professionals and��for them to��learn��skills and��hands-on trades that��are��applicable��to��real-world��occupations and industries.��Highlighting��and��elevating��all the inner workings that��comprise��the built environment, the project team could enrich a varied group of STEAM education subjects.��

Almost doubling its footprint on the full third floor of��the Brooklyn Navy Yard’s��Building 77,��the project creates��27,000 square feet��of bright and comfortable classrooms, shops, lounge areas, and administrative zones. The entire space is��customized for academic success��in the school’s three departments — Building Trade Systems, Computer Technology Systems, and Engineering — and eight curricular��pathways including carpentry,��cybersecurity��and manufacturing.����

Guided by the school’s distinctive, career-oriented curriculum, the project team and Brooklyn STEAM Center��sought��to engage students as emerging professionals. In��close collaboration with school leadership,��Spacesmith��helped shape the process around three key strategies that support student engagement through an interactive, hands-on approach:��

1. Student��pre-design input.��The design team spent a day at the STEAM center��observing��the general operations, student��arrival��and��departure schedules as the Senior and Junior classes changeover from morning to afternoon, revisiting each area at multiple points throughout the day to see how each space is used.����
2. Design��input.��The design team led two design charettes with students��representing��each of the pathways, which was the main driver in the design for the common space.����
3. Construction��input.��During the construction phase, the design team and general contractor hosted monthly tours for the Construction Technology��student groups.����

Through a collaborative design process with both students and staff at the Brooklyn STEAM Center, the��school’s��layout moves beyond the pure efficiency of a typical classroom model to create a vibrant, flexible environment. Biophilic elements and movable furniture support a range of uses, allowing spaces to shift with daily needs. Curved lighting reinforces this sense of fluidity—evoking waves and water in response to the Brooklyn Navy Yard setting—while introducing��a natural��softness and enabling flexible furniture arrangements without reliance on fixed point lighting.��

Student input played��a central role��in shaping quieter, less stimulating areas for focus and privacy. In response, the design incorporates two smaller-scale lounge areas, or “Focus Nooks,” that provide retreat while��maintaining��appropriate staff��visibility.��

Glazed classroom entrances enhance transparency and connection, with color film patterns derived from the STEAM Center’s identity of abstracted tool forms. These openings draw daylight deeper into��the space��and offer glimpses into each classroom’s unique character and activity.��

In contrast to Building 77’s industrial palette, the design��layers in��warmth and vibrancy through acoustic panels, lounge furniture, and other student-driven elements. A pegboard installation above the pantry cabinets maps Brooklyn and partner school locations, serving as an evolving, participatory feature. Its kit-of-parts—simple shelves and interchangeable components—allows students to adapt and contribute over time, creating a living installation where each class can leave its mark.��

To address noise during class transitions—a key concern raised by both educators and students—acoustic treatments are carefully integrated across floors, walls, and ceilings, supporting a more focused and comfortable learning environment.��

Materials throughout are school-grade and selected for durability, health, and minimal environmental impact, while also introducing a palette of organic, natural elements. Together with a range of varied, neuro-inclusive settings, the design supports the diverse ways students learn today. Each classroom is equipped with modular, highly flexible furnishings, allowing both students and instructors to adapt their environment to different teaching styles and modes of engagement.����

In these ways and more, the expanded Brooklyn STEAM Center reflects the vision and ambition of its students. It serves not only as a place of learning, but as an inspiring launchpad for future educational pathways and professional lives.������

Alexandra Koretski, IIDA, NCIDQ, is a senior associate at Spacesmith. William Wong, AIA, LEED AP,��joined Spacesmith as an architect and project manager.

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By Lindsey Coulter

Safety at American schools is a constant talking point but concerns were raised further in 2020. The Government Accountability Office said 54% of schools in America were in “dire need of updates or complete building replacements.” A followed, claiming $1.1 trillion is needed to modernize and replace America’s schools.��

Aging buildings and a high number of violent incidents have rightly given parents many structural and physical concerns about future school constructions. There are many boxes that need ticking. Educators, policy makers, architects and security experts are playing a role in building safer environments for students and staff.

What to expect from the future of American schools

1. Construction��

The hazards of poor structural integrity stretch beyond the risk of building collapse. Aging buildings put students at risk of exposure to harmful substances (lead paints, PCBs, dust, etc.), mold spores and poor air quality. COVID-19 added to these structural concerns, as viruses spread faster in poorly ventilated areas. Modern school construction actively addresses these hazards that put students in danger.

Future school builds will include:

• Climate-resistance materials to withstand extreme temperatures
• Smart hallway design to avoid overcrowding and crushing during an emergency
• Storm shelters in large areas such as gyms��
• Predictive maintenance sensors to inspect buildings’ structural health
• Buildings designed with a number of evacuation routes.

2. Security systems

America’s appallingly high rate of violence in schools demands nothing less than state-of-the-art . Security guards need technology to help them detect threats as fast as possible.��

Schools are one of the most difficult environments to protect. They are unique, complex buildings filled with thousands of students. In a loud and crowded atmosphere, it’s unrealistic for security guards to detect every security threat. World-class security technology buys security officers time and awareness to make decisions faster – decisions that could save many lives.

Modern school security systems feature:

• Smart security cameras: give guards a real-time assessment of crowded environments. Security guards are alerted to weapons, threatening behavior, large crowds, loud noises and loitering. Smart cameras tag people and objects, giving guards a clear view of the events happening on CCTV screens.
• Smart sensors: Today’s smart sensors can detect hazards such as toxic fumes, smoking/vaping loud noises and threatening language.
• Integrated systems: A security response is scuppered if officers need to jump between systems when a threat is detected. Cutting-edge technology products are built to integrate. This is required to keep a real-time view of incidents without losing time switching between security systems.��
• Cybersecurity: New schools focus on cybersecurity well before they’re open to students. As entry points, doors and evacuations are part of the Internet of Things (IoT), many steps are taken to prevent cyber attacks.

3. Adaptive environments

Future school construction is taking a proactive approach to account for multiple environmental and physical security threats. From dangerous weather conditions to violent intruders, environments must be built to handle the worst-case scenarios:

• Solar power backups are used to counter any outages caused by extreme weather conditions
• Smart floor maps are activated during emergencies, directing students and staff to safe zones depending on the type of security threat��
• to manage the threat of violent intruders. Bullet-resistant windows are being installed that double as emergency exits. Whiteboards that double as safe rooms are also installed, giving students a safe place to hide until the security threat is intercepted.

Conclusion

Parents across America are understandably worried about the state of our schools. Security concerns are consistently high in America, but they have been amplified in recent years. An alarming Government report in 2020 stated that 54% of schools were in urgent need of reconstruction. Students and staff are at risk of numerous hazards when buildings deteriorate. Future buildings must address several structural, environmental and physical security concerns to build schools that give students a safe place to learn.��

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By Lindsey Coulter

With more than 20 years of architectural experience,��Aaron Jobson, AIA, ALEP, CEO and President��at��Quattrocchi Kwok Architects��(QKA), has worked��with��numerous school facilities across all grade levels and school types. From facilities��master��planning and new campus development to building transformations and critical modernizations, Jobson brings a wealth of experience and insight to the 91��Ƶ Editorial Advisory Board.

A founding member of the School Energy Coalition (SEC),��Jobson is also a legislative advocate for energy efficiency measures affecting schools and a leading voice on sustainability. He has written��about Building Information Modeling, sustainable design, community engagement, designing for wellness, and in 2015��was certified as an Accredited Learning Environments Planner (ALEP) by the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE).��

When asked what excites him about the future of K-12 and higher education design, Jobson shared a broad vision of progress. “Teaching is continuing to evolve, and I am excited to see how we can evolve the design of learning environments alongside it,” he said. “At the same time, we are learning more about how the physical environment affects the brain, which will continue to influence design.

Jobson spoke with 91��Ƶ about finding new design strategies to connect classrooms to nature, to support teachers and students’ well-being and mental health, and why he’s expanded his view of design to include advocacy and policy.

SCN: With more than 20 years in practice, what experiences most shaped your path into school design and firm leadership?�� ��

Jobson: My architectural journey has been deeply influenced by engaging with, learning from, and understanding the perspectives of educators, including my wife and many members of my family. Understanding their experiences has shaped how I think to design spaces. Over two decades of collaborating with educators on various projects has provided me with a broad understanding of how learning and facilities interact. Together, these have informed a deep level of empathy, appreciation, and respect for the work these professionals do, which informs how I approach the design of school facilities. Our goal with every project is to help educators better serve their students and communities. Some of my most impactful and rewarding experiences are when we get the opportunity to hear from students and teachers who are using the facilities we designed and how our work has��impacted��their educational experience.������

SCN: How has working across all grade levels—from��Pre-K��to higher education— influenced your design approach?����������

Jobson: Working across many grade levels and schools in different communities has provided me with a deep understanding of the breadth of challenges that educators face and how school facilities can support them. This work has helped me understand that each school environment is unique and that the best projects start with actively listening to and learning from teachers and community members.������

SCN: As a founding member of the School Energy Coalition, what gaps in policy or practice compelled you to get involved?������

Jobson: Schools are a unique set of energy users, differing from residential or commercial users, which have��particular challenges��and opportunities. Energy laws and programs often��failed��to address the specific needs and requirements of schools. In part, we started the School Energy Coalition (SEC) to provide a voice for schools and their needs in the California state government.��������

SCN: How do you see the architect’s role evolving in legislative advocacy for energy efficiency in schools?�� ��

Jobson: Architects offer valuable��real world��examples of energy efficiency policy, including the costs and challenges of implementation. Over the past decade or so, the landscape of sustainable design, energy efficiency and regulation has changed a lot. Many older strategies focused on energy efficiency are being replaced by��newer approaches��focusing on decarbonization and renewable energy generation and storage. Architects can also help��identify��regulatory roadblocks that make it harder to implement energy efficiency changes.��������

SCN: How has your definition of “good school design” evolved over time?������

Jobson: In general, my definition of��good design��has always been spaces that are beautiful and functional. Over time, I have learned more about the technical aspects of how the quality of space impacts learning through factors such as acoustics, air quality, etc. These factors have become an important aspect of how I think about functional design and what makes a well-designed learning environment.������

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By Michael��DiTullo��

In K–12 schools and higher education environments, acoustics��plays��a critical role in supporting focus, comprehension, collaboration, and overall well-being. Whether designing a bustling hallway, an open library, or a large-scale auditorium, thoughtful acoustic planning directly influences how students of all ages engage, learn, and succeed.��

Sound can either enhance or disrupt the learning process. Studies have shown that good��, directly affecting learning outcomes. Poorly managed acoustics, such as excessive noise and long reverberation times, create distractions that undermine students’ ability to focus. These conditions also strain teachers, forcing them to speak louder, which can lead to vocal fatigue. The impact of poor acoustics is particularly severe for students with hearing impairments or learning disabilities, who often struggle to follow lessons in noisy classrooms.��

As educational facilities evolve to support flexible, technology-rich, and collaborative learning models, acoustics must be considered early in the design process. One of the most effective—and often underutilized—opportunities to address acoustic challenges is the ceiling. Ceiling-based acoustics allow designers to improve sound performance without sacrificing aesthetics or flexibility. When thoughtfully applied, the ceiling becomes a powerful tool for creating quieter, more supportive learning environments across a wide range of educational spaces.��

Adapting Ceiling Acoustic Strategies Across Educational Spaces��

Acoustic needs vary widely across educational environments, requiring solutions tailored to each��space’s��function, occupancy, and activity level. Ceiling-based systems offer flexibility in form, orientation, and layout, allowing designers to balance performance with visual intent.��

For example, ceiling acoustics like����can be installed in multiple configurations to achieve both aesthetic and acoustic goals. Different arrangement methods provide distinct benefits, helping designers��optimize��performance based on how a space is used:��

• Abutted or Individual: Units can be hung separately or connected with interlocking baffles for continuity.������

• Orientation: Baffles may be aligned in consistent rows for a clean, structured look, or rotated to create unexpected movement.����

• Zoning: Different profiles can be used within a single project—Linear configurations for focused meeting spaces and Tide profiles in breakout areas to encourage flow.��

• Integration: Multiple suspension points per unit allow flexibility around lighting, sprinklers, and HVAC systems without compromising acoustic performance.��

These considerations become especially important in educational environments where functions and design goals vary by space:��

• K–12 Classrooms: Classrooms��benefit��from acoustic strategies that prioritize speech clarity, particularly for younger students who are still developing auditory skills. Ceiling acoustics help reduce reverberation and background noise, allowing students to hear instruction clearly.��

• Corridors & Circulation Areas: High-traffic corridors generate reflected noise that can travel into adjacent classrooms. Ceiling treatments absorb sound and reduce transmission, supporting quieter learning environments nearby.��

• Libraries & Study Areas: Modern libraries often serve multiple purposes, from quiet study to collaborative work. Ceiling acoustics help minimize ambient noise, control sound reflections, and acoustically define quiet and group zones, especially in higher-education settings.��

• Auditoriums, Lecture Halls & Multipurpose Spaces: Large gathering spaces require careful control of reverberation to support speech, presentations, and performances. Ceiling-based solutions help ensure sound clarity across tiered seating and allow adaptability for varied uses without constant reconfiguration.��

Across both K–12 schools and university campuses, flexibility and longevity are central to acoustic planning. Teaching styles continue to evolve, and spaces are increasingly designed to support collaboration, hybrid learning, and informal instruction. Ceiling acoustic strategies offer a scalable solution that can adapt as room functions change, while preserving wall space for teaching tools, displays, and technology.��

A Closer Look: How Acoustics Impact Classroom Performance��

Students spend��the majority of��their school day in the classroom, making acoustics especially important in supporting focus, comprehension, and overall student success. Many modern classrooms feature open layouts and hard surfaces such as concrete and glass, which amplify sound and contribute to excessive noise levels. Managing acoustics in these environments is essential to ensure students can hear instruction clearly and remain engaged.��

Effective sound management not only improves speech intelligibility but also helps��maintain��focus and fosters a better learning atmosphere. Acoustic ceilings absorb sound from above, manage noise from HVAC systems and projectors,��and also��help to free up wall space for teaching tools and displays. In classrooms, open-concept spaces, and multipurpose areas, the use of ceiling acoustics creates a calmer, more focused learning environment where students and teachers can thrive.��

The����and reverberation times between 0.6 and 0.7 seconds for classrooms. Reverberation time (RT) refers to how long sound persists in a space after the source has stopped. When sound reflects repeatedly off hard surfaces, it lingers and competes with speech, reducing clarity. Echoes are��a common form��of reverberation and can significantly interfere with learning.��

In practice, most classrooms exceed these recommendations, with noise levels of 50-60 dB,��similar to��a busy intersection. These��high levels��of noise can severely hamper learning and communication. Because sound rises and reflects repeatedly off horizontal surfaces, the ceiling plays a critical role in managing reverberation time. In classrooms with hard floors and minimal wall treatments, untreated ceilings would allow sound to linger, increasing RT and reducing speech intelligibility.����

Incorporating overhead acoustic treatments helps absorb reflected sound earlier in its path, reducing the time it��remains��in the space. By shortening reverberation time, ceiling acoustics support clearer communication, minimize competing sound reflections, and help classrooms meet recommended acoustic performance targets.��

Balancing Performance, Aesthetics, and Long-Term Value��

Acoustic design is most effective when integrated into��a holistic approach��that considers lighting, furnishings, materials, and building systems together. Educational facilities��benefit��from ceiling acoustic solutions that combine sound absorption with visual interest, contributing to spaces that feel both comfortable and inspiring.��

Durable, low-maintenance, and responsibly sourced materials support long-term performance while aligning with sustainability goals. By treating acoustics as a coordinated system rather than an afterthought, schools and universities can create learning environments that are adaptable, resilient, and supportive of student success over time.��

Thoughtful ceiling acoustic design transforms the learning experience by reducing distractions, improving clarity, and supporting well-being for both students and educators. As educational spaces continue to evolve,��leveraging��the ceiling as the “fifth wall” offers a powerful opportunity to enhance acoustic performance while reinforcing design intent. By prioritizing sound alongside sight, designers can create environments that truly support learning in all its forms.��

Michael��DiTullo��is��Head of Product Innovation for����

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As school districts nationwide grapple with aging infrastructure, evolving educational models and heightened community expectations, K-12 bond measures have become a critical mechanism for funding transformation. Beyond simple capital campaigns, these referendums reflect shifting priorities around safety,��flexibility��and long-term facility performance.����

Recognizing the critical value of connecting readers with bond- and referendum-related insights, 91��Ƶ is proud to announce a new partnership with����that will bring��SchoolBondFinder’s��expertise��and capital project bond insights to 91��Ƶ readers.��SchoolBondFinder��provides a data-driven lens into how districts are planning,��proposing��and delivering projects—offering��stakeholders��a clearer view of where investment is occurring and how those decisions are shaping the future of learning environments.��

The School Bond Finder K-12 Bond Platform����

SchoolBondFinder��specializes in tracking K-12 capital project bonds across the nation. Our platform monitors school district bond initiatives across key stages, providing stakeholders with crucial data on project scope, financing, and voter outcomes.��

• Watch List:��Districts may be added to this list following initial activities such as a facilities study, demographic study, capital improvement plans review, or a feasibility survey.��
• Proposed List: A bond is moved to this list once a school board officially approves a referendum for a vote.��At this point, the vote date, official ballot language, use, and amount are��finalized.��
• Passed/Failed List:��Updates on school bond referendum votes—both��passed��and��failed—are typically available on our platform within 24 to��72 hours��of the official results being released.��

A Recap of 2025 Bonds��

As the first quarter of 2026 wraps��up��it is important to look back at 2025 for reference. In 2025��SchoolBondFinder��tracked��$91��Billion worth of bonds. Approximately��$69.2��billion��passed,��whereas��$22.7��billion��failed. The overall passage rate for 2025 was��75%, which aligns with the trend��observed��over the last few years. Our research team tracks school bond activity nationwide, with the highest total bond amounts recorded in Texas ($18.4 billion), California ($6.1 billion), Ohio ($3.5 billion), Washington ($3.4 billion), and Pennsylvania ($3.0 billion) in 2025.��

Historic Trends��

The chart below illustrates spending amounts for both passed and failed referendums over the past eight years. Election years typically show an increase in both the number and total value of bonds proposed, a��trend often attributed to higher voter turnout during presidential elections, which can improve referendum passage rates.��

An eight-year longitudinal analysis (2018–2025) highlights consistent trends in K-12 bond funding, offering insight into evolving educational priorities. During this period, bond measures most��frequently��supported the following project areas:��

• Speciality��Areas����
• Instructional Areas��
• Athletic Facilities��
• HVAC��SystemsElectrical��and Lighting Upgrades��
• Electrical / Lighting Upgrades��

Given that most instructional buildings were built before the 1970s, it is no surprise that infrastructure upgrades are a top priority for school districts. Capital improvements continue to be focused on modernizing student learning environments. These spaces include classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and specialized facilities. The goal is student-centered learning, achieved through flexible environments that incorporate mobile furniture, integrated technology, and versatile layouts.��

2026 Year to Date – First Quarter��

As of March 2026, approximately��$6��billion��in K–12 bonds have been approved.��Roughly��267��bond measures were tracked in the first quarter, resulting in a��70%��passage rate. Approved bonds were concentrated primarily in specialty areas (ie��cafeterias, sensory rooms, admin spaces), HVAC systems, and instructional spaces. The top three states (WA, KS, and IL) account for about��66%��of the total bond amount passed in Q1.����

2026 Bond Priorities��

The��SchoolBondFinder��database is currently tracking a total of��1,478��bonds scheduled for 2026 and beyond, as of March. Approximately��117��bonds are scheduled to go to vote throughout��the month of April, with more elections scheduled in May and June. The combined Proposed and Watch List bonds��represent��approximately��$56 billion��in potential opportunity.����

K-12 School bonds are currently prioritizing construction, capital improvements, technology upgrades, and security enhancements. Many districts are��seeking��smaller, more targeted amounts for referendums, which may be more appealing to taxpayers and could be a more achievable strategy compared to large, multimillion-dollar bonds.��

• Facility Longevity and Maintenance: There is a growing focus on facility longevity and maintenance over expansion. Renovation and repair projects are the most frequent, while new construction and major system/envelope upgrades��represent��higher-value contracts.��
• Student-Centric Modernization:��A significant portion��of bond funding targets modernization and expansion of areas directly��impacting��student learning and extracurricular activities. This includes projects focused on flexible learning spaces, modern classrooms, and auditorium renovations, showing a high demand for multi-purpose furniture solutions.��
• Infrastructure and Safety: Basic infrastructure��remains��a consistent priority. Projects related to safety/security and system/building envelope upgrades, such as HVAC replacement, roof repairs, and��security��show a commitment to the health, safety, and long-term goals of school facilities.��

More Info and Insights to Come��

Looking ahead, the trajectory of K-12 bond funding��suggests a more strategic, targeted approach to capital investment—one that balances fiscal realities with the urgent need to modernize facilities. As districts continue to prioritize infrastructure resilience, student-centered design and operational efficiency, access to��timely, reliable data will remain essential. Platforms like��SchoolBondFinder��are critical resources for A/E/C stakeholders,��providing��the in-depth insights necessary for better decision-making and efficient��utilization��of K-12 funding opportunities.��

Watch for quarterly insights from��SchoolBondFinder��to learn more about upcoming opportunities.��

Petra Sucher is the Marketing Engagement & Analytics Manager with��.��

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By Lindsey Coulter��

The Catholic University of America’s newly completed Conway School of Nursing marks a milestone in the university’s mission to address the national nursing shortage. Designed by RAMSA (Robert A.M. Stern Architects) in collaboration with Ayers Saint Gross, and constructed by Clark Construction, the more than 102,000-square-foot facility represents a cornerstone of the university’s campus master plan and embodies the Conway School of Nursing ethos: “Where High Tech Meets High Touch.”��

A Gateway Campus Hub��

The Conway School of Nursing will not only support the university’s goal of doubling enrollment in the nursing program over the next five to seven years, but it also��establishes��a new campus gateway for all students and visitors. The stately building replaces a former parking lot with a transformative academic hub that aligns with the university’s historic architecture while introducing advanced learning and sustainability features. Positioned at a prominent and highly visible site on the urban campus, the building was designed to be a new landmark, featuring a tower element that serves as both a visual and a symbolic entryway.��

Additionally, the building’s site plan and landscape design by Michael Vergason Landscape Architects and Ayers Saint Gross reinforce a cohesive campus framework. In addition to the tower feature, the exterior is defined by a cascading stair that links an upper-level student commons to the Trinity Fountain below and a north quadrangle framed by the John K. Mullen of Denver Memorial Library, Edward M. Crough Center for Architectural Studies and McCort-Ward Hall.��

On the third floor, a terrace shaded by a timber pergola offers sweeping views across campus, including vistas of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception to the west.��

Collegiate Gothic Design and Contextual Integration��

The Conway School of Nursing appropriately matches the scale and massing of neighboring buildings while embracing the Collegiate Gothic style that defines the Catholic University campus. The facility was designed to blend seamlessly with the university’s aesthetic of stone, clay roof��tiles��and bronze light fixtures.��

The building’s facade��showcases��a creative use of reclaimed granite, which was salvaged from Philadelphia’s Transfiguration of Our Lord Church, built in 1924 and demolished in 2009.����

RAMSA developed a cost-effective precast panel system that integrated the salvaged stone into the modern building envelope. Each stone was split to create a flat face and then was adhered to custom precast concrete panels, producing a durable, modular cladding system that preserves the look of traditional hand-laid masonry. This technique transforms��the salvaged, century-old masonry into a durable, modular cladding system.��

“It was cool to see details that came from the old church — like the holes that were drilled into the stone for flagpoles,” said Tony McConnell, Senior Associate with RAMSA, who led the precast effort. “We chose to keep all those elements, so that as you walk around the building, you see these little follies you��wouldn’t��expect on a brand-new facility. It feels authentic.”����

To achieve an even higher level of authenticity and articulation, RAMSA also incorporated CNC-milled molds and rubber casting to replicate intricate stone patterns.����

“Detailing is challenging, but we detail our buildings to the nth degree,” McConnell said. “We want our traditional buildings to look like��they’ve��been there for 100 years, and they need to fit into the context next to them. Poorly articulated details are a dead giveaway. Historically, precast��doesn’t��like those details — it wants flat, simple things — but��we’re��seeing that it can do much more.”��

The panels were then finished with traditional mortar, preserving the appearance of hand-laid stonework while��benefiting��from the efficiency, structural integrity and ease of installation offered by facade��panelization. This cost-effective fabrication and installation approach improved weather tightness and energy efficiency.��

The precast method had the��additional��benefit of making the project easier to complete on a tight urban site. As the busy main road in front of the building��couldn’t��be shut down for any extended period, using precast significantly��expedited��the construction schedule and improved safety and efficiency.����

“With precast, we don’t have people climbing up and down scaffolding,” McConnell added. “Anytime we can reduce scaffolding, job sites are safer places.”��

The creative reuse of existing materials also helped the facility achieve LEED Gold certification (it is also targeting WELL Silver), thanks to the incorporation of green roofs, stormwater management��systems��and bioretention facilities.��

Learn more about how the building blends tradition and technology while centering wellness (and fulfilling a vision that was first��established��in Catholic University’s 2012 campus master plan) in the ��

Learn More

Project Name: The Catholic University of America Conway School of Nursing��

Area: 102,000 gross square feet��

Construction Cost: $62 million��

Architects: Ayers Saint Gross in collaboration with RAMSA (Robert A.M. Stern Architects)��

Landscape Architect: Michael Vergason Landscape Architects����

Structural Engineer: Simpson��Gumpertz��& Heger��

MEP Engineer: Burdette, Koehler, Murphy & Associates��

Civil Engineer: Rummel, Klepper & Kahl��

Traffic Engineering: VHB��

Cost Estimating:��Forella��Group��

AV/IT/Security: Convergent Technologies Design Group����

Code Consulting: GHD��

General Contractor: Clark Construction Group��

Precast Subcontractor: High Concrete Group��

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By Douglas Roberts, AIA, LEED AP��

In an era of projects that face delays or increasing challenges around securing funding approvals,��it’s��never been more critical to apply strategic thinking and creative approaches to problem solving��in order to��steer educational projects through to completion. Feasibility studies prove to be a useful tool both internally and externally, delivering relevant data and information to project teams while informing stakeholders at every level of the��why��behind each decision. These essential undertakings provide a deep dive to define a program, evaluate existing facilities, and build public consensus on a project.����

The importance of a��development’s��relationship with the public cannot be overstated, particularly when it comes to education. These projects are typically publicly funded and��largely depend��on approval by local voters to bring these initiatives to fruition. With the importance of providing value to the community and demonstrating prudent stewardship of financial resources, designers and project managers take on the unique role of educating the community, pulling the curtain back to walk these audiences through the logic behind the development of feasibility options including the educational value, cost implications and schedule impacts. The use of feasibility studies clarifies this important context, evaluating critical components of a project and delivering this information through data-backed decision-making.��

Located in Massachusetts, Tyngsborough Middle School��provides��a compelling example of a successful feasibility study-backed project execution. Developed in tandem with the Town of Tyngsborough and Tyngsborough Public Schools, the study informed the decision-making process for the new school while��facilitating��an informative dialogue with the community.��

Overview of Feasibility Study Process��

In addition to local processes, the project first had to navigate the rigorous requirements of the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), a quasi-independent government authority that collaborates with local communities to help to elevate delivery of educational services. The organization’s prescriptive process promotes��equitable��distribution of tax dollars and prioritizes educational outcomes throughout the Commonwealth. MSBA independently evaluates the school district’s defined��needs of a school��through the educational program. The educational program focuses on the delivery of education which can result in design solutions that range from code upgrades, additions, and renovations to ground-up facilities.����

Project teams are engaged to conduct feasibility studies that evaluate options for an educational environment that meets the district’s needs and is cost effective, safe,��sustainable��and energy efficient. Using MSBA’s guidelines to chart a reasonable path forward for the development, the study must be factual, creating context for dialogue without advocating for a single solution. A successful study and��subsequent��project��relies��on the close collaboration of a “three-headed team”: the school district (via its School Building Committee), the owner’s project manager (OPM), and the design team. Additionally, having strong community advocates, like school administrators and building committee chairs, can make��a big difference��in successfully navigating the process and garnering support throughout a community.��

Built in 1967, the original Tyngsborough Middle School building had been renovated but not expanded, raising concerns that ranged from antiquated systems and aging FF&E to space limitations and��impact on��adoption of current instructional models. After consideration of multiple design options from the study, the Town��elected��to pursue a new construction��option��based on its needs.��

Relationship to Public��

The community’s demands, priorities, and feedback are essential throughout the��feasibility��study and project planning.��It’s��not a one-size-fits-all situation; to build trust and support from stakeholders, education projects must be catered to the area. This requires a variety of considerations: is there a focus on sports and recreation, or the arts? Are there certain programs that draw more community participation than others? For Tyngsborough, this meant investing in��a state-of-the-art��softball field and a flexible performance space to support existing, high-value theater programs shared by the middle and high school. The community recognized the benefit of the project through the successful vote approving the project funding.��

These studies are also critical for educating the public on hidden infrastructure needs, such as outdated MEP systems, and building consensus. If voters��don’t��comprehend��demands that��aren’t��visually��apparent, a project could fail, which can result in years-long delayed funding and increased costs. Clear and direct communication is key to relaying these messages; this can be��accomplished��through in-person and digital forums, attending Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) meetings, or even visiting local senior centers for those with limited mobility. Streamlining this dialogue through direct action is the most effective way to keep communities knowledgeable and satisfied, resulting in more positive project outcomes for every stakeholder.��

Conclusion/Outlook��

For Tyngsborough, pursuing a ground-up structure allowed the school to provide the infrastructure and spatial requirements for flexible, project-based learning and co-teaching methodologies. The brand new two-story, 112,784 square foot facility is adaptable for current and future pedagogy, incorporating��state-of-the-art��spaces for STEM/STEAM and performing arts, community access and resources, and sustainability integrations that keep the new school adaptable for generations to come.��

As school districts and organizations like MSBA continue to evaluate needs as learning environments and technology evolves, these feasibility-informed decisions chart a well-rounded path forward for students, educators, and communities. Creating unique education design solutions tailored to a community’s long-term vision and needs, not just its current state, is made possible through this process—embracing the future while honoring the present.����

Douglas Roberts, AIA, LEED AP, is Principal at����

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By Evelyn Long

In modern school design, the most critical spaces for student development may not be classrooms — they may be the areas in between. Third spaces like commons, libraries and even hallways represent an untapped frontier for fostering the youth’s social and mental well-being. They’re crucial for community health, but they are steadily declining. This presents a unique opportunity for educational facilities. ��

The Disappearing Third Space and Its Toll on Student Wellness��

Third spaces��, unlike the first and second spaces — the home and work or school. However, third spaces like malls, local parks and other����after the COVID-19 pandemic and rise of digital platforms and online communities. This reduces the number of venues and opportunities for low-stakes social interactions that children and young adults especially need.������

“We need intimate, close relationships,” Japonica Brown-Saracino, a sociology professor at Boston University, said. “But casual relationships serve a purpose as well, and many of those can be cultivated in a third place.”����

Around����between the ages of 13 and 29 report feeling lonely. Teenagers have the highest rates, and those experiencing this isolation are 22% more likely to earn lower grades. These statistics are alarming, as loneliness can����and diminish life expectancy.����

Within academic institutions, third spaces are where students choose to be, without a formal agenda. Students����these places when��they’re��at school. For example, many Gen Z students prefer to spend time in settings with third-space qualities when��they’re��not in class. The challenge for designers is how to bring those qualities inside school walls.����

From Concept to Construction — How to Build a Third Space��

While the sociological need for third spaces is compelling, the “how” is where design and construction experts can translate an abstract concept into a functional reality. Here are design strategies and ideas that can transform underutilized areas into vibrant hubs for student life.����

Implement Flexible and Biophilic Design��

Modern third spaces must serve multiple purposes and ideally connect students to nature. Consider these ideas:������

• Use modular seating, movable��partitions��and varied furniture to create distinct zones for quiet study, social��interaction��and collaborative work within a single��open area.����

• Go beyond potted plants by incorporating living walls, wood-paneled��accents��and large windows to maximize natural light.����

• Choose carpets,��textiles��or acoustic panels that feature patterns inspired by nature to create a subtle connection to the natural world.����

Adopt a “Resimercial” Approach to Materials and Comfort��

Blending the comfort of home with the durability of commercial environments is possible with��particular strategies:����

• Use durable but comfortable materials like cleanable fabrics, warm-toned��flooring��and area rugs to dampen sound and define spaces.����

• Install a long, recessed electric fireplace in communal spaces to create a powerful sense of warmth and gathering.����

• Designate��wall spaces for framing systems that display rotating student artwork to highlight the school’s community.����

Ensure Accessibility and Code Compliance��

Compliance with codes and regulations, from��, is also nonnegotiable. Professionals must go beyond meeting the��minimum��requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure accessibility:������

• Create clear, intuitive pathways free of obstacles, with good lighting and clear wayfinding signage to��assist��neurodiverse students or those with low vision.����

• Provide a variety of seating options, including chairs with and without armrests and couches at different heights.����

• Design for various sensory needs, which may include using acoustic paneling to dampen noise in “quiet zones” and providing areas with lower levels of stimulation.����

Leverage Smart Technology for Efficient Environments��

Smart technology will be part of an estimated����by 2028. This widespread adoption means that many students and their parents increasingly see responsive features as a standard.����

• Implement a zoned, smart HVAC system to keep different zones within a third space cool or heated simultaneously based on occupancy and need.����

• Install motorized shades that are programmed to automatically lower during peak sun hours to reduce solar heat gain.����

• Ensure the smart features are well-integrated to reduce energy consumption����and gain significant savings.����

Provide Pervasive and Accessible Technology��

Beyond smart automation, third spaces must always provide the fundamental technological infrastructure students need.��

• Integrate power outlets and USB charging ports directly into couches, tables,��benches��and other furniture.����

• Ensure the third space has a blanket��coverage��wireless network with sufficient density of wireless access points to handle hundreds of simultaneous connections without lag or dead zones.����

• Create dedicated huddle stations for small group work, equipped with a monitor with screen-sharing capabilities and mobile whiteboards that can be moved to��different locations��as needed.����

The Future of School as a Community Anchor��

Third spaces are a proven sociological concept that provides the informal, voluntary social connection that today’s adolescents are actively seeking. The goal is to intentionally design these spaces into the school environment, rather than leaving them to chance. Combine flexible, human-centered architectural planning and strategically integrate smart technology. Aim to become builders of the infrastructure that supports a healthier and more connected generation.����

The post Can Design Turn Schools��Into��the New Third Space?�� appeared first on 91��Ƶ.

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