STEM Launch K-8 | Adams 12 Five Star Schools

Thornton, Colorado

Adams 12 Five Star Schools emphasizes Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education. Design Concepts is helping them bring these lessons to life outside the classroom. At the new STEM Launch K-8 in Thornton, a middle school was renovated to focus on primary and intermediate students. Situated on 21-acres and next to a state park, the school and surrounding landscape are now on par with the education the children are receiving. 

Design Concepts worked closely with the Adams 12 school district and SlaterPaull Architects to carry the theme of discovery through the halls and around the grounds. The entire grounds received a major upgrade to reflect the school's theme and focus on STEM learning. The school's entrance and many of its classrooms are located below Pecos Street with a newly open and highly visible plaza. The plaza is a meeting area for students as well as a lesson in properties of the planets, stars, constellations, sun, and space. 

The new playgrounds enable playful learning, with chances to explore concepts such as flight, forces, geometry, DNA, and more. An outdoor classroom means classes can explore the world around them and see science in action. An area for student gardening brings hands-on experience with plants in a fun and meaningful way.