For Immediate Release
For further information, contact Laurie Stephans.
Twenty-two Naperville North High School students saw how classroom theory becomes real-life application during a hands-on field trip to Newman Architecture in May. Led by Licensed Interior Designer and Firm Principal Dawn Ruth, and with the assistance of several intern architects, students drew scale plans and created chipboard models of dog houses of their own design – all in one morning at Newman Architecture’s Naperville office. NNHS Mathematics Coordinator Karen Canty and Communication Arts teacher Chris Stanicek accompanied the students on this, the fourth annual outing, which Canty proclaimed another success for all concerned.
“Whenever the students are out of the building, they look at learning a little differently,” she explains. “When we visit a place like Newman Architecture, the students are exposed to different avenues by which to learn and they absorb it more than usual just because of its novelty.”
Although each student created his or her own dog house, there was also a spirit of teamwork throughout the exercise, both in terms of the students’ interaction with each other as well as with the Newman staff – and students seeing that teamwork in action is an invaluable object lesson according to Canty.
“We stress the importance of being a Collaborative Worker through many of our project-based learning activities,” she notes. “The students could see why this is an important trait to have once they learned of the team approach at Newman. This is also part of our school district’s vision for our graduates.”
Student responses confirmed that lesson learned.
“It takes a lot of time, commitment and energy to work together to make a product that you would want to show to your friends,” notes Zach Eisele.
Newman Architecture is proud to be an official member of the District 203 Business Partnership, a program which provides opportunities for students to observe and/or participate in the world of work, thereby reinforcing that what is learned in school applies in that realm as well. Canty explains why these relationships are so valuable to the students.
“Sometimes students can’t visualize themselves pursuing a career in anything at all,” she says. “They need field trips like this to open their eyes to career possibilities that they would’ve never considered. Once they understand that there are more options for them after graduation they tend to work a bit harder toward that end.”
A good illustration of this is provided by a student from last year’s field trip, whose newfound interest in design led her to contact Newman’s Dawn Ruth after the event, resulting in both a summer internship as well as an ongoing relationship as she prepares to continue her post-secondary education in the field. Obviously, the self-confidence gained from being treated in an atmosphere of mutual respect is another positive by-product of these business partnerships.
“It is so important for the students to see firms like Newman Architecture, giving back to the community by spending an entire morning with them” Canty explains. “They felt valued and energized by the help that each one of them received.”
And though it seems like the students received all the benefits of the field trip, Ruth is quick to point out that, as with most volunteer efforts, the giver also got a great deal back in return.
“It is such a joy to see the looks of excitement and discovery on the students’ faces,” she says. “Their youthful enthusiasm is contagious, and spending just a few hours sharing our passion for design with them re-energizes all of us! We hope to host this event for many years to come.”
Newman Architecture, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this fall, offers professional architectural and interior design services that incorporate the art, the science and the profession of designing buildings, specializing in educational, corporate, religious and municipal projects. For further information call 630-420-1600 or visit www.Newman Architecture.com.
