Defining Heatherwood Elementary
School's Open Space Classrooms

By Helen Johnson, Left Hand Valley Courier, June 1998

"People who are unfamiliar with open space [classroom] design in a school sometimes have the misconception that open space means an unstructured program," said Heatherwood Principal Lynn Widger. "This is not so."        The environment enhances collaboration among teachers and creates a sense of community throughout the school. The use of space creates a more flexible atmosphere for multiple learning activities and allows more efficient use of technology.        Open space allows the staff to organize the school day, with time for quiet activity and time for talking and movement. There is a greater emphasis on being aware and respectful of others. Students become very conscientious about not disrupting others. "The plan does not create [distractions]," Widger said. "In fact, Platt Middle School teachers say students from Heatherwood are better able to focus."        There appear to be few negative effects from the open space environment on student learning. Parents and students report positive effects, such as teachers always being visible to parents and others. Since there are no walls or doors, there is an incentive to keep classroom standards high.        Heatherwood was one of three Boulder Valley schools built in 1972 with an open space classroom design. The design was intended to support instruction that focused on flexible grouping and team teaching. In addition, the design was cost effective and offered the most efficient use of space.        A map of the school reveals that noisier areas, such as the gym and music room, are situated on the west side of the building, away from classrooms. The kitchen, lunch room, science and art rooms are on the east side. The classrooms for upper and lower grades are separated by the Library Media Center and Computer Lab. Kindergarten rooms are enclosed.        Significant modifications were made to the building in 1995, but changes were within the limits of the existing heating and ventilation system and code requirements for outside exits. Acoustical panels, storage units, carpeting and partial walls were added to the instructural areas to abate noise, reduce visual distractions and increase storage space. "Noise bounces off walls; so noise level is no greater in open space plans than in enclosed classrooms," Widger said.        Heatherwood parent Jennifer West said, "A lot of people feel it’s negative to have open space. My first grader has learning disabilities. I was initially concerned about putting him in Heatherwood because of the open space plan. I’ve seen no negative impact but I’ve seen many positive aspects of the open space environment. There is freedom within the structure."        "The open learning environment provides more experiences for the children and is more like the real world. The plan enables the children to learn better focusing skills. I feel that teachers make the greatest impact, no matter what the school’s layout, and the teachers and administrators at Heatherwood are great."        "Parents of prospective students are invited to visit the school to see for themselves," Widger said.        Call 303-530-1234 to arrange a tour. Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on regularly scheduled school days and also during the two weeks before the school year begins. Heatherwood's principal since September 1999 is Larry Orobona, who can be reached at 303-530-1234 or larry.orobona@admin.bvsd.org .