4 minute read
MAGNIFICENT MAKEOVERS
School Specialty Continues to Help Transform Learning Spaces for Both Teachers and Students
Since 2015, the College Football Playoff (CFP) Foundation has partnered with School Specialty to provide new, fully equipped educational spaces that promote learning and personal growth through the Extra Yard for Teachers Makeover Project.
The two organizations share a common goal: improving resources for educators while providing access to better learning opportunities for children.
A Shared Mission To Improve Educational Opportunities
University Hill Elementary School in Colorado and Newman Elementary School in Utah each cut a ribbon on a new space as part of the Big 12 Conference’s Homecoming initiative during Extra Yard for Teachers Week.
“At School Specialty, we are incredibly proud of our partnership with the College Football Playoff Foundation and their Extra Yard Makeover program,” said Amy Veugeler, Vice President of Learning Environments with School Specialty. “Together, we are making significant strides in transforming classrooms across the country, bringing much-needed resources to educators and creating enhanced learning environments for students. It is invaluable and truly special to work alongside a partner that shares our mission of supporting teachers and improving access to better educational opportunities for children. Through these classroom makeovers, we are not just investing in physical spaces but in the future of education.”
School Renovations Nationwide
Over the years and in conjunction with the CFP Foundation, School Specialty has donated its time, resources, and products to renovate more than 50 schools in conjunction with the CFP Foundation, including eight new makeovers unveiled in the last two months, just in time for the 2024-25 school year. For months leading up to their respective makeover, these schools receive customary top-notch levels of service through Projects by Designs as well as products from School Specialty’s proprietary brands which include Classroom Select, Califone, 21st Century Safe School, Childcraft, School Smart, Sax, Abilitations, and Sportime.
“For us to have successful students and to have successful teachers, they have to find joy in what they do every single day,” said Spring ISD Superintendent Dr. Lupita Hinojosa, regarding a media center makeover at Ponderosa Elementary School in Houston.
“The remodeling of this library truly brings joy and excitement and creates that hope for them and their future.”
Creating Dynamic Learning Environments
Flexible and varied classroom furniture plays a key role in creating dynamic learning environments that cater to different teaching methods and student needs. Offering options like modular seating, adjustable desks, mobile storage units, and variations on seating styles, allows teachers to easily shift between activities, whether it’s collaborative group work, independent study, or hands-on projects.
A variety of seating options also gives students the freedom to choose what best suits their comfort and learning style, which can boost focus and engagement. The ability to quickly reconfigure the space promotes creativity, keeps lessons fluid, and ensures the classroom meets diverse physical and academic needs. Overall, flexibility and variety in furniture enhance both teaching and learning by fostering adaptability and inclusivity.
A unique design element in the classroom, such as a vibrant mural, a special piece of furniture, custom artwork, or creative lighting, can greatly enhance the learning experience for both teachers and students. These personalized touches can make the space feel more inviting, exciting, and inspiring, sparking curiosity and creativity. When students see a classroom that reflects thoughtful design, it fosters a sense of pride and ownership in their environment, which can boost their engagement and motivation to learn. For teachers, it creates an energizing atmosphere that can inspire innovative lessons and a positive classroom culture.
Inspiring Future Opportunities
“This is a special place,” said Berry Elementary School (Arlington, Texas) Principal Tammy Rogers on the school’s new media center. “One of the things since I’ve been principal here is that I wanted my kids to believe they can be anything they want to be. I think this opens another opportunity for our kiddos to believe that.”
