Educational needs drive fast-growing West Des Moines. First the district and community determined a 9th-grade building would best prepare learners for high school. Next, they outlined what students should know and be able to do. Then, Valley Southwoods was designed.
Flexibility, connectedness between students and teachers, and a personalized learning environment are key. The academic wing accommodates six teams, each featuring four classrooms, science room, and staff-planning room grouped around an open resource area. Because technology skills are integrated throughout the curriculum, much of the technology can be moved to different areas for interdisciplinary projects. All main corridors lead to the media center, a two-story open space overlooking the south lawn.
The center of the social area is the forum, a two-story open space overlooking the plaza. Serving as cafeteria, informal performance space and gathering space, the forum fosters conversation and a communal sense within and beyond the school.