Committee on Architecture for Education

Southeast Community College Academic Excellence Center-03

Trends and Best Practices in Exemplary Educational Facilities

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Education Facility Award recognizes and celebrates leading-edge projects across the full continuum of learning environments—ranging from K–12 schools and community or technical colleges to institutions of higher education, training centers, and non-traditional learning settings. Each year, a jury convened by the AIA selects projects

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Achieving Net-Zero Energy in Educational Facilities

Across the architectural profession, the drive towards sustainability has placed a spotlight on net-zero energy (NZE) buildings. NZE denotes a structure that balances annual on-site energy production with its consumption. This is typically achieved through photovoltaics (PVs) or other renewable energy sources, paired with rigorous strategies for energy efficiency and

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At Salish Coast Elementary School in Port Townsend, WA, students and families have a place to gather and bond at the beginning and end of the school day. Photo: Lara Swimmer

Designing Schools for Socialization

Over the past thirty years, school districts across the U.S. have incorporated social and emotional learning (SEL) programs to help students be “ready to learn”—to manage their emotions, including stress and anxiety, while developing healthy identities, making caring decisions, and forming and maintaining positive relationships.

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A Vision for Safe, Welcoming Schools

Our memories of school, especially from childhood, tend to leave a lasting impact on our lives. Whether it is the friends we made, the teachers who inspired us, or the sense of freedom and joy we experienced during playtime, these memories shape our identities and influence our lives.

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