ASK DR. LENNIE APRIL 2026

Shaping Learning at Every Stage: What evolves as students grow—and the core conditions every learner needs to see, hear, move, and belong.

Q)


Can you talk about how the design of classrooms differs between elementary, middle, and high schools? What are some design principles that apply to supporting learners across all of these ages, and what are some differences?

A)


Of course, and thanks for this question. First, is the realization that these cohorts have different sizes of individuals. Second, comfort is impacted by the size of seat and table heights. Think of providing a variance in these items, particularly for tables – standing height, seating height, and floor tables, along with the appropriate seating, makes a big difference in student agency across these age cohorts.

Design principles/students have to be able to:

SEE / visual acuity is critical/placement of the teaching wall should be on the ‘landscape’ side of the classroom; mitigate glare.
HEAR / acoustic acuity is also critical / think about noise transference from outside and/or from hallways; add textiles to support absorption, particularly carpeting, acoustic accessories [i.e., https://madebymarco.net/product-category/accessories/]; add audio enhancements and even a microphone for the educator.
BE COMFORTABLE / ensure choice and control over where and how students choose to learn for their own needs – change supports both a mindless movement as well as a physical change. Add vertical writing surfaces to support standing learning postures.

BELONGING / provide opportunities for students to feel connected to each other and to nature. Use table shapes to encourage engagement practices, and definitely add biophilic tenants to each learning place [see: https://madebymarco.net/product-category/accessories/ ]. When one has a sense of belonging, well-being is enhanced, as well as a feeling of safety and security.

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