When Bay Farm School students and staff arrive at school on Monday, they’ll find a campus that has been transformed by theaddition of a spacious, light-filled classroom building and outdoor learning spaces.
The 4000-square foot building, which replaces 4 aged portables, houses four classrooms. Key features of the classrooms
include:
- Windows that provide both natural daylight and ventilation
- Independent HVAC systems for heating and cooling
- Flexible furniture that can be reconfigured depending on instructional needs (e.g., small groups, large groups, or work in pairs)
Quattrocchi Kwok Architects (QKA) chose materials that were cost effective and sustainable, including wood framing, linoleum floor tiling, paints and coatings with low levels of toxic volatile organic compounds, and metal roofing.
In addition, the new building provides an outdoor teaching patio and landscaped courtyard, both of which can be used for outdoor learning by groups of various sizes.
“We cannot emphasize enough how important instructional spaces are to staff’s ability to teach and students’ ability to learn,” says Superintendent Pasquale Scuderi. “Light-filled classrooms, outdoor learning spaces, and up-to-date educational technology are key to keeping students engaged, focused, and thriving.”
A key consideration during the design process was the poor soils at the site. Designers mitigated this loose soil – which can be a risk factor in earthquakes - by using deep pier foundations that anchor the building into bedrock. In addition, a concrete apron around the building extends the foundation. This will prevent settlement on the walkways around the building.
The building was designed by QKA, built by Lathrop Construction, and funded by the Measure I Facilities Bond, which voters approved in 2014.
“We are grateful that the community of Alameda supported Measure I, which has brought so many improvements to our school campuses,” says Board President Heather Little. “It is thrilling to see these projects open for use by students and staff.”
A ribbon cutting ceremony for the building will be held on August 11 as part of Bay Farm School’s back-to-school community gathering.
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