Future Look

Science Labs: Examples from other school districts

Modern science labs are spaciously designed so a teacher can walk amongst workspaces to check student progress. Flexible seating can be arranged for lecture-styled presentation, group collaboration or single-student focus. Lighting is bright and technology is integrated.

To meet New Jersey science instruction standards, modern labs give students easy access to equipment and workstations that function well. West Deptford Middle School labs from the 1970s make it hard to meet these standards.

Auditoriums: How this WDHS space could shine

This photo gallery shows school auditoriums renovated by LAN Associates, the same architectural firm West Deptford uses.

In Florham Park, N.J., the middle school auditorium gained new stage lighting, a new sound system, seating, and finishes. A new rigging system for the curtains was installed to aid in student productions, and the ceiling was renovated to complement the design.

In Goshen, N.J., renovations improved the functionality and technology of the high school auditorium. Sight lines were improved. The stage benefitted from a lift that can be quietly raised or lowered during performances. Catwalks were added above the audience seats so students could safely manipulate lighting during shows, and walls were designed to maximize acoustic value.

ECDC: Expansion would help more than preschool programs

Expanding the preschool program requires more space, and that can be done at the site of the original Red Bank School. Renovating the existing rooms and building an addition would create an Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC).

The preschool program for 4-year-olds would stay in elementary schools. Preschool for 3-year-olds would shift to the ECDC and accommodate more students.

That would open much-needed space at elementary schools.

WDHS Gym Refreshed

This example from another New Jersey school shows a gym with fresh paint and new electronic basketball backstops. Plans for WDHS also include a divider to double the utility of this space, and new bleachers.

Updated Locker Rooms

Updated locker rooms for the girls at WDMS and the boys at WDHS would have larger, more functional storage for sports equipment and a cleaner look. A locker room for each gender was renovated previously at these schools, but not these rooms.

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