Revitalizing Education, Renewing Communities: The Positive Impact of School Renovations

America is facing an education crisis. Schools are grappling with teacher shortages, reading and math scores have hit a decade-low, and enrollment and federal funding are declining. An often-overlooked factor contributing to this crisis is the state of our school buildings. 

A student’s learning environment significantly influences their education. Factors such as limited access to outdoor space, lack of air conditioning, poor ventilation and acoustics, and overcrowding can impact both students and teachers. It’s a natural conclusion that if students can’t hear properly in their classroom or are constantly distracted by outside noise or uncomfortable temperatures, this would lead to lower focus, attendance, and test scores.

These problems are prevalent in Chicago Public Schools (CPS), where buildings average 83 years old. A recent report from CPS found that there were $14.4 billion worth of immediate critical needs in public schools, and that students were learning in overcrowded facilities with lead paint, leaky ceilings, broken floor tiles, and deteriorating walls. This is an issue that is far-reaching; American Society of Civil Engineers gave American public-school infrastructure a D-grade. 

In 2014, Milhouse, as part of a joint venture with F.H. Paschen, began addressing these issues by starting construction work on Wildwood World Magnet School on Chicago’s Northwest side. The project included building a 37,200 sq. ft. classroom annex, featuring a new library, art room, computer room, dining hall and air conditioning in every classroom. Renovation efforts continued in 2019 with the reconstruction of over a dozen science and technology labs at three different city high schools.

Renovating schools has a proven positive impact on both students and faculty. Updated science technology and libraries help students to stay current on new standardized testing curriculum and help teachers teach their lessons more effectively. A study in a Connecticut school district found that after a school underwent a renovation, test scores went up. When a student is physically comfortable in their classroom, it allows them to focus on the lessons being taught to them.

Schools also often serve as vital hubs for the communities around them. They are considered an “anchor institution,” which are “enduring organizations that play a vital role in their local communities and economies.” Gymnasiums can become after school sports leagues, town halls can be held in the auditorium, after school programs and clubs are held on campus, and libraries can offer resources to students and citizens alike. But these community pillars can crumble if the buildings holding them fall into disrepair. Rec leagues can’t be held in a leaky gym, summer after school programs are difficult when there is no air conditioning, and STEM programs falter when they are in antiquated labs.

In 2015, Paschen Milhouse JV III, provided general contracting services in constructing a 49,000 sq. ft. annex at Walter Payton College Preparatory High School. The school is an important community hub on the North Side of Chicago but was facing overcrowding and declining enrollment. The construction of a new space “allowed students, many who are community residents, to learn in a safe, modern and comfortable environment.” Principal Tim Devine was quoted as saying, “The new building will allow us to educate ~100 additional students per year… [and gives] ample opportunity for kids across Chicago’s socio-economic spectrum and neighborhoods.”

The addition also created space for after school dance, theater, and art classes, driver’s education, and a dedicated center for special education. Many of these amenities are available for community recreational use after hours and on weekends. Projects like this not only boost enrollment and academic performance but also foster development, economic growth, and community bonding. Strong communities lead to thriving individuals.

Renovating American public schools is a long-term investment in the future, requiring substantial time and resources. Providing students with a strong start in quality educational environments can shape their success for a lifetime. At Milhouse, we are dedicated to delivering these vital facilities. Whether installing new flooring or constructing a three-story building, every effort we make contributes to the success of students and faculty alike. Our comprehensive services go beyond general contracting, encompassing architectural, civil, electrical, mechanical, and structural engineering. By ensuring that school facilities are clean, safe, and modernized, we help students and their communities thrive. We are passionate about creating better learning environments for generations to come.

To learn more about Milhouse’s services for educational facilities, click here.