Planning, funding, and building a new school can be exciting and challenging at the same time. So if your district is about to embark on a major construction or renovation project, what steps can you take to ensure a smooth process?
The Philip J. Rock Center and School, a West40 partner that supports students who are blind, visually impaired, deaf, or deafblind in a residential setting, is currently building a brand-new facility next to its current location in Glen Ellyn. SEE VIDEO
Executive Director Bonnie Jordan said the current building, originally built as a nursing home in 1961, has long struggled with size and infrastructure limitations. Additionally, Jordan said issues with heating and cooling have made certain spaces, like the sensory room, uncomfortable for students and staff alike.
Since the building is owned by the State of Illinois, Jordan worked with the Illinois State Board of Education and state lawmakers to get funding approved for the project. Construction of the new school began in July and is expected to be completed by October 2025.
Once finished, it will feature modern amenities and thermostatically controlled rooms.
“It’s going to be really nice to have open, big classrooms,” said Jordan.
Jordan said she has taken steps to make sure construction crews are aware of the mission.
“We’re building this building with love for these kids,” Jordan said.
Jordan advises other school administrators undertaking similar projects to be patient and have a sense of humor.
“I never thought I’d be excited about concrete and all the different ways they pour it,” Jordan said. “But you have to take ownership of the site and more importantly you have to appreciate the people who are putting the labor into it. It’s your job as a leader to appreciate them and remind them who they are building for.”
Architect Athi Toufexis of Studio GC Architecture + Interiors, which is not affiliated with the project at the Philip J. Rock Center and School, offered additional insights for schools navigating construction or renovation projects.
That includes prioritizing thorough planning, open communication, and understanding the community’s priorities.
“Allow yourself to be open to hearing different viewpoints,” Toufexis said. “Everyone from the board, administrators, teachers, and students has an important voice in this process.”
Additionally, Toufexis said educational spaces are evolving to meet changing teaching methods and learning styles. Modern classrooms often include flexible spaces for small group work and other instructional models.
Toufexis is the featured guest on a Shift Everything podcast episode about school construction projects.
West40 is the fiscal agent for the Philip J. Rock Center and School.
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