Newton Middle School | Littleton Public Schools
NOVA Program | nature-based courtyard | multi-purpose synthetic turf field
Littleton Public Schools, Newton Middle school served as a flagship to set expectations for other similar district projects. The design is intended to inspire creativity and innovation in an engaging 21st-century learning environment. The school also provides spaces for the District’s NOVA program supporting K-12 students with special social and emotional needs. The new school is funded by a community-supported bond and BEST grant program funding.
Through an open and collaborative Design Advisory Group process, it was determined that the exterior spaces should directly support the school’s inspiring educational environments. Outside the building, multi-purpose learning spaces with strong connections to classrooms allow for learning experiences to extend to the outdoors. We believe that open-air environments help stimulate the mind to grow and focus on learning.
The school’s site features several areas of outdoor spaces including both active and passive environments. A quiet, nature-based courtyard with a four-season greenhouse, undulating landform, a dry creek bed with rocks and logs, and a large amphitheater outdoor classroom allow for focused lessons, exploration, and discovery. There are opportunities to engage with the natural environment, get a little dirt under your nails and nurture your green thumb. This space is directly linked to indoor classrooms, maker spaces, and creator labs by large roll-up doors.
Active aspects of the site include a large, multi-purpose synthetic turf field, a full-sized basketball court, and a dining area surrounded by exciting play features. The building’s cafeteria and auditorium spaces open to the outdoor social and play spaces. Here, students can enjoy their meals, socialize and be active in many ways.
