McKenzie School is undertaking an exciting new initiative that will benefit our families and community for many years to come. Globally, there is a burgeoning concept in education called a “Learning Commons” which combines the concepts of a library, technology lab and more.
This is a collaborative place where students can discover, tinker, explore, and learn academic independence in new and exciting ways. This large, unified space will help promote the skills our students will need to be successful 21st century citizens: creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. Its flexible furniture and use of space encourages shared use of materials and digital resources, as well as:
- A “Maker Space” where children can “tinker” and apply new knowledge they gained in the classroom
- A “Production Studio” so children can be collaborative and communicate their knowledge to others
The following link offers a video to explain the concept of a learning commons:
McKenzie School is beginning to implement the concept of a Learning Commons during the next school year, using its current LMC and Technology Lab. Construction of a modified/improved space will take place during the summer of 2017, enabling McKenzie to launch its very own Learning Commons at the start of the 2017-18 school year.
Central School was the first D39 school to launch its Learning Commons this year. Harper and the WJHS will open their Learning Commons next fall, with McKenzie, Romona, and HMS in the Fall of 2017. While District 39 is funding the construction of these projects, each PTA/O has been asked to partner in helping to raise funds to outfit the space. To that end, McKenzie’s PTA will host the Decades Party on May 14th to raise funds for Phase I–Learning Commons equipment and materials that can be put to use immediately.
Click here to read Dr. Welter’s recent presentation to the PTA on the Learning Commons.
