Kentwood — As she examined design renderings for future classrooms at the new Valleywood Middle School, Teri Conklin said she loved the incorporation of new technology and large windows.
“Oh my gosh, I can’t wait! I’ve never had a brand new classroom before,” said Conklin, a sixth- and seventh-grade social studies teacher who has taught at Valleywood for seven years.
From the classrooms, to the media center, to the cafeteria, gym and playground, Valleywood Middle School teachers, administrators and support staff are having a say in what their new building will look like and in creating ideal spaces.
They recently participated in two sessions with representatives from architecture, engineering and branding firm GMB, providing input the firm will use as it moves forward with the design.
Valleywood will be rebuilt from scratch, replacing the current 1960s-era structure, thanks to the bond voters approved in May. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2028 at its current location, 1110 50th SE.
The approximately 115,000 square-feet new school, anticipated to open for the 2030-31 school year, will enroll 750 students, up from the current 550, said Thomas Lagone, executive director of finance and business operations.
The stakeholder engagement process for Valleywood will also involve parents, community members and students to determine what people prioritize in the new school, he said.
Wearing Their Design Hats
At the four-hour sessions, Valleywood staff brainstormed with sticky notes and looked at design options on presentation boards, indicating their preferences with red and green stickers. Spaces they considered included the main office, media center, classrooms, cafeteria, gym, art room, music room, outdoor learning spaces and building exterior.
They also worked in small groups to plot out their dream school — envisioning where all spaces in the school should be.
“If I heard ‘excited’ once, I’ve heard it 20 times,” said Molly Rajski, a GMB interior designer. “This is one of the most robust stakeholder groups that we have been able to collect (feedback from). Having so many really important staff come in for a programming session for us is enlightening.”
Staff members said they loved the ideas of flexible spaces, natural light, high ceilings and even a potential second story.
“It’s really exciting to be able to use our voice and be able to create the school of our dreams,” said Toni Haynes, school counselor and athletic director. “The school is going to best benefit all of our students, staff and Valleywood community,”
Principal Jenin Shamali-Bradfield said it’s been nice to see a cross-section of new and veteran teachers, support staff and others come together to plan the design. She said she loves the ideas for flexible, collaborative spaces and ways to create a welcoming place that serves as a community hub.
“It’s been really exciting to see all the different ways of viewing a school building come together to try to create something that’s great for our students,” she said.
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