The Flexible Prototype - Schools

Prototypical Elements

Safety & Security

• Interior and exterior security cameras are mounted in corridors, gymnasiums, lunchrooms, and at the main entrance of each school. These cameras are web-based compatible, and will one day allow for monitoring of each school from a remote location, such as the City's Office of Emergency Management.

• Fully-sprinklered school buildings.

• Area of Rescue Assistance buttons located in stairways to be used by handicapped persons who need emergency aid and monitored from the school's main entrance.

• First-floor exterior windows outfitted with window guards for security.

• Windows on second and third floors have mechanism to restrict window opening.

• Environmentally-friendly elementary school prototype incorporates "green" elements into its design, including:
  • "Green," or, vegetative roof;
  • High-efficiency HVAC equipment;
  • Occupancy sensors and dimmable lighting in classrooms;
  • Alternative fuel recharging station;
  • Toilets and sinks with water use reduction devices;
  • Use of local and regional building materials;
  • Low-emitting building materials;
  • Hand dryers installed to minimize paper waste.

• HVAC, electrical systems, and clocks are all on timers and programmable through the Building Automation System.

• Each classroom has computer connection capabilities for power and voice data lines.

• Multi-purpose room for occasional community use.

• Terrazzo floors that last the lifetime of the building.
• Virtually indestructible and easy-to-clean block walls.
• VCT flooring that is simpler to maintain than carpeting.
• Long-lasting structural glazed face tile that is also easy to clean.
• Maintenance-free sedum plantings on rooftop garden.