Entrance to the new Science Center
Image courtesy of SMP Architects LTD, Philadelphia
It's all about program and flexibility for the fast changing world of laboratory science. Westtown was one of the first to pioneer the physics first model in the 1990's. That innovation led to more students at Westtown excited about lab sciences so that now with the same student population we have on average about 125 more students in lab sciences. We continue to innovate in our curriculum, doubling the number of course offerings in the last 15 years with exciting new courses in engineering, forensics (etc). And because our students are so strong in science and passionate about it, we need a building to empower and enable independent study. Finally, we need science rooms that are flexible for changes we know are coming and others we cannot yet describe.
The $13 million Science Center Expansion and Renovation project was approved by Westtown's Board of Trustees on January 11, 2013. Construction will begin in March for the LEED-certified building*. It will contain six labs in the new wing, and renovations to the existing structure will include dedicated space for the expanding Robotics Program and more room for independent research by students. Under the current ambitious construction timeline, students and teachers will be in the new space January 2014. Listen as US chemistry teacher Steve Compton shares his excitement about the possibilities.
What's happening? Construction of the new Science Center will support a
cutting-edge science program worthy of Westtown School that prepares students for demands of the 21st century. The building’s design incorporates optimal classroom/lab spaces, the most current technology, a dedicated robotics/physical science room, and a large room for long-term independent research. The current building will be remodeled and a new wing added, doubling the existing space. The building itself is a learning model with purposeful “green” elements, and it will be – at a minimum – LEED silver certified. A geothermal heating and cooling system will be more energy-efficient and will allow us to offer a new Westtown Summer Science Institute.
How much will it cost? $13 million has been budgeted for all design, construction, and equipment costs, as well as an endowment to cover depreciation and operating expenses. To date, $8.3 million has been raised.
Front of building
Image courtesy of SMP Architects LTD, Philadelphia
click above image for more outside sketches
New lab space
Image courtesy of SMP Architects LTD, Philadelphia
click above image for more inside sketches
*LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an internationally recognized green building program of the US Green Building Council.