GC Middle School unveils new library, learning commons - Garden City News

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After years of meticulous preparation and planning, the spaces are finally ready for students to use and enjoy. The main area has a traditional library feel and features the school’s vast collection of books. Flexible bookshelves and furnishings can be moved around to change the library’s shape and accommodate student needs. The back of the main area holds an extra-large screen surrounded by a c-shaped seating area and workstations for shared learning experiences.

Off to the side is the makerspace area where students can practice their design-thinking skills. It houses activities such as crafts and 3D printing. Adjoined by a glass accordion door is the STEAM room which features group seating and access to various technologies. This space is ideal for demonstrations and hands-on STEAM activities.

In the library’s collaboration space, teachers can work with small groups on specific concepts, or during larger lessons, the room can be used for breakout groups.

Lastly, the library is equipped with a recording studio complete with recording machinery and a green screen. Next year, this space will house the brand-new middle school news team.

“The library’s various areas and spaces provide students with a hands-on, interactive experience, promoting experimentation and exploration of ideas in a collaborative environment. This fosters essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving and creativity. Moreover, the remodel has created new opportunities for learning that did not exist previously and will enable students to learn in spaces specifically designed for their needs,” said middle school library specialist Nadine Wenger.

The learning commons is a multipurpose space designed to accommodate student-centered collaborative group work. Speaking to only a handful of features the space has to offer, including its nontraditional seating, mobile furniture and multiple wireless screens that can be used either independently or together, the room offers flexibility that lends to out-of-the-box problem-solving scenarios.

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