John Glenn Middle School
Illuminating learning pathways
John Glenn Middle School opened in 1962 and serves approximately 1,350 students from North St. Paul, Maplewood, and Oakdale. In 2018, district officials asked LHB to redesign the aging facility to improve student learning and outcomes. They believed a well-designed environment would help kids discover their individual passions, interests, and talents, with teachers and staff serving as guides along the path.
LHB’s 133,895 SF renovation and 87,668 SF addition encourage exploration by removing barriers to information and interaction. The changes empower students with:
- A dynamic commons area connected to the media center, fostering collaboration, reading, laptop use, and meetings with teachers or social workers.
- Engaging labs for hands-on learning in culinary arts, creative sewing, cultural expression, systems design, construction, electronics, robotics, and practical math applications.
- Dedicated group project space by the cafeteria, promoting teamwork during lunch and throughout the day
Improving social dynamics
LHB’s Pre K-12 team worked closely with district officials and other stakeholders to develop a building that furthers equity, discourages bullying, and enhances inclusivity. Glass walls help staff monitor students’ moods and behavior, for example, and all-gender, single-stall restrooms have replaced traditional models. Such features reduce feelings of isolation and intimidation among students and bring them into a conversation that promotes well-being and learning.
Enhancing occupant health
Wellness concepts were woven into the entire renovation, including recommendations acoustics, thermal comfort, lighting, and aesthetics, which impact mood, performance, and other health outcomes. A focus on air quality and reduced carbon dioxide improves student alertness, learning, and retention.
Welcoming community use
Care was taken to ensure public after-hours access to the new competition-level swimming and diving pool as well as other amenities without compromising overall building security. The size of the pool even accommodates kayaking and paddleboarding instruction. A school that serves a community is often seen in a more positive light and that positively impacts the instructors and the students.
Better site circulation
A new student drop-off and bus loading area improves pedestrian safety and traffic flow. Paths and walkways throughout the site create safe connections to the surrounding neighborhood. The building’s shape encourages student gathering and social interaction in sheltered areas and enhances the architectural profile.
Empowering Future Innovators
The cutting-edge technology lab is designed to inspire middle school students in STEM education, fueling their passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Immersive Technology-Rich Lab Experience
Students engage in hands-on activities such as coding, robotics, 3D printing, and digital design. The lab fosters a spirit of exploration and empowers students to become future leaders in the digital age.
Transforming Math Skills into Real-World Projects
Step into the construction lab, where middle school students turn math into tangible projects, laying the foundation for their future roles as engineers and builders.
Seamless Learning Environment
The construction classroom seamlessly connects to the hands-on construction lab via an overhead door. This setup allows students to move freely between spaces and provides instructors with a clear visual connection between the rooms.
Unifying Spaces
The entry commons serves as a vibrant hub, seamlessly connecting various areas while fostering socialization, collaboration, and meaningful interactions with educators, administrators, and support staff.
Enhancing Learning with Integrated Spaces
Learning Centers have been seamlessly integrated into the 7th and 8th grade wing, functioning as extensions of classrooms and student service areas. Equipped with diverse technologies, flexible furniture, and collaborative tools, they minimize the need for students to leave their wing.
