by Marylee Mercy
Architects, distinct from educators, possess a somewhat theoretical and romanticized understanding of the needs of teachers and students. Our understanding is based on our own personal experiences, hazily seen through the mists of time and memory.
But today’s classrooms are dynamic and versatile, allowing for easy reconfiguration to accommodate various teaching styles and learning activities. A certified Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP) speaks the language of both educators and architects to ensure new educational spaces (renovated or newly constructed) align with the school’s strategic initiatives, and that the completed project holds true to the educational goals set during early planning phases.
Understanding the ALEP Designation
Those with the Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP) certification have undergone specialized training to gain expertise in educational facility planning, design, and management. This designation signifies a deep understanding of the specific needs of educational spaces as well as the complex relationship between the physical environment and educational outcomes.
ALEP Areas of Expertise
Bridging the Gap Between Vision and Design
Each school project starts with the community. ALEPs lead visioning sessions where every voice is welcomed to participate in deciding what learning should look like in their school, district, and town. Through these sessions, held with school personnel, parents, students, local stakeholders, and the broader community, ALEPs gain a clear understanding of project goals and then serve as the community’s voice through the project development. It is the role of the ALEP to make sure the needs of teachers and students remain central to the design and are not compromised when costs rise and cuts are made.
Translate Educational Goals and Initiatives into Supportive Spaces
Education is undergoing a revolution to prepare students for a future defined by innovation and collaboration. The field of neuroscience is uncovering more and more about how people learn, and pedagogies and curricula are changing to reflect those findings. Student supports are expanding as diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice are prioritized. With their specialized training, ALEPs are perfectly poised to translate a school’s educational goals and initiatives into carefully planned built spaces that will support students and educators now and into the future.
