Reimaging Education and Extracurriculars for 21st-Century Students
Students in Rossford, Ohio, have a new reason to be excited about school. The R, a multi-use cutting edge complex built by Rossford Schools, has 73,600 square feet of space for academic enrichment and extracurricular activities. NBS outfitted the facility with furnishings tailored for makerspaces, multi-use classrooms and even esports.
The R features expansive indoor sports facilities, including an indoor track, batting cages, esports, a tennis court and two golf simulators. On top of that, students can look forward to learning and creating in STEM-focused multi-purpose rooms and makerspaces. The goal was to create a unique environment that all grade levels and activity interest could use, with student-centered design at the forefront. In addition to serving students, many of the health and wellness amenities can also be enjoyed by parents, staff and community members after school hours.
NBS worked hand-in-hand with The Collaborative, who provided architecture and interior design services for the project. NBS was a partner throughout the process, providing layout and furniture options, as well as insight into education trends to help guide the design of the learning environments. Dave Serra, a Principal at The Collaborative, said, “Our experience with NBS was great, as always. We collaborate so well in terms of how the furniture can enhance the design of the interior spaces.”
The esports area is one of the highlights of the complex. Created to support growing student interest in competitive esports, the room is equipped with sturdy height-adjustable desks to support the weight of high-processing computer equipment. Ergonomic seating has headrests to support the head and neck, ensuring that students are comfortable when reclining and playing for long hours. The room also has tiered seating for bystanders and observers. Bright neon lights enhance the ambiance and experience.
Makerspaces and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) classrooms are designed with flexibility in mind to support a variety of activities, from robotics to hands-on experiments. Butcher-block tabletops provide durability, while casters on seating and tables allow for reconfiguration. Mobile whiteboards invite students to brainstorm and sketch out their ideas. Common areas throughout the complex are furnished with lounge seating, encouraging socialization among students while giving them a comfortable place to relax in between classes.
The R represents the latest collaboration between Rossford Schools and NBS, building on a partnership that has spanned several years. The new multi-purpose complex carries out the district’s vision to prepare, inspire and empower all students to achieve success and is an exciting step forward for Rossford students and the wider community. Serra says, “I think the opportunities this building presents to all students will separate Rossford as a district from surrounding districts. The building has also opened up spaces in the elementary school and high school to allow for more flexibility and student-focused activities.”
Learn more about Rossford Schools: rossfordschools.org/
