1.
Color:
The common spaces are scattered with bold splashes
of bright primary colors to intrigue the children
and warmly welcome them into an exciting and
fascinating experience while the soft warm colors
in the classrooms provide a serene environment
in which they can focus and learn.
2.
Design and Art:
A carefully designed network of artwork and
design techniques were incorporated throughout
the facility to fascinate, delight and appeal
to the curiosity of children. The hallways were
constructed to entertain curves, sensory panels,
art, floating mobiles, and inspirational music.
The front entrance includes a huge metal sculpture
of a rocking bird; a fountain provides the sound
and sight of falling water; and a garden bursting
with plants and flowers adds color, texture
and scent. Liquid tiles in the floor ignite
the senses and pique interest.
3.
Nature:
Nature plays a special role in the school’s
teaching and learning process. The lobby area
boasts a variety of animal life ranging from
fish and birds to reptiles, including a 1,000
gallon saltwater aquarium and an aviary with
Gouldian finches. A reptarium with water dragons
and turtles enable the children to closely observe
and try to locate the animals as they blend
in with their natural surroundings.
4.
Music:
Music is a critical part of the school’s
heritage and continues to enjoy an essential
role in the curriculum due to its connection
with Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, the founder of the
Suzuki method of violin. The school’s integrated
music system enables carefully selected ranges
of music to be broadcast in common areas throughout
the day. In the morning and early afternoon
hours, the music selection is serene and inviting
(e.g. jazz, classical and folk) while the afternoon
hours offer more upbeat (e.g. rock and roll,
opera, etc). In addition, there is a dedicated
music room for group and individual music instruction.
5.
Sensory Panels: Sensory
panels are located on hallway walls so the children
can touch and physically experience different
materials, forms, and textures.
6.
Classroom Design:
Classrooms are three to four times larger than
a traditional primary classroom to allow flexibility
such as configuring them to provide different
learning zones. Using motorized screens, which
have been emblazoned with stimulating art, the
rooms can be quickly reconfigured as instructional
needs dictate. In addition, the rooms are designed
so the children themselves can easily configure
and organize them when appropriate.
7.
Classroom viewing areas:
Viewing areas with one-way, floor-to-ceiling
mirrors are located outside each classroom so
that parents can observe the children in classroom
activities. The one-way glass prevents the children
from being distracted by seeing their parents
and provides them entertainment in the form
of a giant mirror in the classroom.
8.
Outdoor Exercise/Play Areas: Every
inch of outdoor space was efficiently utilized
to provide efficient play and exercise venues
for the children. These are designed as four
interconnected, but distinct play areas at the
school including:
•
Lower Playground --
incorporated with ceiling fans and outdoor
heaters, provides complete shade and protection
in both moderate and inclement weather conditions.
• Upper Playground
-- includes a small soccer field and a large
climbing structure.
• Infant Playground
-- covered in soft foam-backed “Astroturf”
on which even the youngest child can sit,
crawl and learn to walk. It also doubles as
an area for older children to run unobstructed
for up to 150 feet.
• Garden Playground
– provides the children a nature setting
for outdoor reflection that includes flowers
and plants that attract butterflies and birds.
It also has an attached tricycle track.
9.
Indoor Exercise/Play/Instructional Area: A
specifically designed room on the second floor
of the building is designed for children two
years and older for enrichment activities ranging
from ballet and gymnastics to sports classes
and general play times. This room is also used
for individual and group musical instruction.
10.
Library: An
extensive resource library is richly stocked
with a wide variety of books, films and CD’s
for both students and staff. It also boasts
leading edge activity and learning materials
available on a rotating basis throughout the
year.
11.
Meals: To
help teach the children practical skills and
responsibilities each classroom is equipped
with plates, cutlery and dishwashers, offering
a family–style approach to meal time. The
school is also equipped with a cutting edge
commercial kitchen and two full-time staff chefs
who prepare nutritional, meals and snacks for
the children.
12.
Security:
Security is taken very seriously at the Suzuki
School with 20 cameras monitoring the exterior
and interior of the building and controlled
access at all entry/exit points in the facility.
Teachers and staff are also trained in various
security measures.
