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The Third Teacher: Our Learning Environment
Today's students at Sacred Heart are enjoying a very different learning environment than that remembered by many alums from years past. Largely gone are the stationary wooden desks of yesteryear, replaced by movable tables, tech-friendly desk modules and creative seating options that accommodate children's varied methods of study and learning.
Campus enhancements were an important facet of the Masterpiece Campaign, and to learn more about existing and planned upgrades, a group of parents, faculty and staff gathered on May 2 for the final 2017-18 Coffee and Conversation event. Titled "The Third Teacher," the conversation highlighted the role that the environment plays in facilitating engaged learning. While there were several campus enhancements including the new 5th grade classrooms and technology upgrades, this discussion focused on two projects: the creation of the Primary School STEAM lab (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) and the redesign of the interior and Sheridan Road playgrounds (due for completion this summer).
Setting the stage was Primary School Division Head Lisa Zimmer, who described in detail how the new STEAM lab—with its adaptable tables, flexible seating and green screen—is facilitating the four Cs of learning for the 21st century: critical thinking, creativity, communication and collaboration. This flexible learning space has supported students in interdisciplinary projects such as designing toys, developing a product and business plan, using recycled materials to create decorations and building model bridges. Students have used the green screen for presenting book reports and creating messages about efforts to recycle. In the STEAM lab and throughout the school, there is an awareness that students may need quiet or collaboration, to settle in or move about, in order to do their best work. And having an adaptable environment helps creativity and critical thinking to flourish.
Taking the podium next were 7th graders Kate and Gabe who, as 5th graders, joined their classmates in helping to plan the remodeling of the interior playground so that it would be safe and fun for the Primary School students. They undertook a playground observation phase off-site; on campus, they took surveys and interviewed faculty and students. They measured, researched, budgeted and talked with vendors about their equipment. They made 3D models and display boards. As a veteran of the process, Gabe said, "We improved our math, science and writing skills, but not only that, we formed a bond between our teammates." Kate added, "The fact that we did a project that has such a big impact on our school is just about the best feeling in the world. …determination and hard work will always pay off." Although not every recommendation the 5th graders made could be implemented, their input was invaluable. Kate and Gabe's full presentation can be read here.
Coordinator of Student Life Christy Crandall completed the morning's review of the two playgrounds' safe and fun renovations. Plans include some new equipment, some additional padding on the building and some rearranging of play spaces, among other improvements. The basketball hoops will remain on both playgrounds. Finishing touches to the Sheridan Road playground are still being explored, with conversation continuing about the Meditation Garden. Readers should rest assured, however, that the buddy benches have not been overlooked! They will still have a home on the two playgrounds.
Click here to see the slides from this presentation.
The "Coffee and Conversation" series highlights the programs and facilities made more robust thanks to the Masterpiece Campaign.
If you have questions about the Masterpiece Campaign or fundraising at Sacred Heart, please contact Anne Marie Tirpak (773.681.8401), Director of Institutional Advancement.
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6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660