EDUCATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS · Facility Master Plan Committee ... parents and community members who contributed their time, effort and expertise to create this document. Listed below

EDUCATIONAL

SPECIFICATIONS

November2008

Written by Edna Maguire Ed Spec Committee

MVMS Ed Spec CommitteeOld Mill Ed Spec Committee

Park Ed Spec CommitteeStrawberry Point Ed Spec Committee

Tam Valley Ed Spec CommitteeFacility Master Plan Committee

Administrative Council

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Mill Valley School District wants to thank our consultants at Vanir Construction Management Inc, and the staff, parents and community members who contributed their time, effort and expertise to create this document.

Listed below are the commitee members.

Aimee DeCelles

Bain LaPlant

Bryce Goeking

Carol Maguire

Chip Smith

Christy McCormick

Dana Baker-Williams

Darlene Reap-Klosty

David Lown

Dee Treshnell

Donna Carillo

Elizabeth Tosaris

Gail van Adelsberg

Gus Arnold

Gwen Hubbard

Jane McDonough

Joan Deamer

John Duncan

John Selix

Jon Elam

Jonna Palmer

Kathryn Drake

Kathy Hattner

Ken Benny

Kerri Mills

Kimberley Russell

Laura Shearer

Leslie Thornton

Lisa Zimmer

Margaret Ann O'Connor

Mari Allen

Mark Levy

Matt Huxley

Michele Rollins

Mike Fuchs

Mike Webb

Molly Mundell Bass

Nancy Sigerman

Nica Orlick-Roy

Peg Katz

Rebecca Heitz

Shari Graham-Glaser

Terry Kritsepis

Tim Ryan

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Mill Valley School District - Educational Specifications Table of Contents - 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I: EDUCATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS PURPOSE AND OVERVIEW ........................................................... 1

A. MILL VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT OVERVIEW ........................................................................................... 1 B. MILL VALLEY COMMUNITY OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................... 2 C. DISTRICT MISSION AND STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS.................................................................................. 2

1. High Levels of Student Learning ............................................................................................................... 2 2. Excellent Staff ........................................................................................................................................... 3 3. Communication and Community Inclusion................................................................................................ 3 4. Sound Finance and Infrastructure............................................................................................................. 3

D. CURRICULUM DELIVERY.............................................................................................................................. 3 1. General Principles ..................................................................................................................................... 3 2. Staffing Ratios ........................................................................................................................................... 4 3. School Enrollment and Capacity ............................................................................................................... 4 4. Grade Configuration .................................................................................................................................. 4 5. School Hours of Operation........................................................................................................................ 4

PART II: FACILITIES DESIGN AND FUNCTION..................................................................................................... 5

A. GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS ....................................................................................................... 5 1. Code Compliance...................................................................................................................................... 5 2. General Space Appearance and Adjacencies .......................................................................................... 5 3. Sustainability ............................................................................................................................................. 5 4. Flexibility.................................................................................................................................................... 5

B. BUILDING SYSTEMS...................................................................................................................................... 6 1. Climate Control.......................................................................................................................................... 6 2. Power and Lighting.................................................................................................................................... 6 3. Communications........................................................................................................................................ 6 4. Technology................................................................................................................................................ 6

C. SECURITY ....................................................................................................................................................... 6 1. Site Layout:................................................................................................................................................ 7 2. Physical Features:..................................................................................................................................... 7 3. Security System: ....................................................................................................................................... 7

D. SIGNAGE ........................................................................................................................................................ 7 1. Create signage that clearly defines campus way-finding and operational hours:..................................... 7

E. STORAGE ....................................................................................................................................................... 7 1. The following are site storage considerations: .......................................................................................... 7

F. COMMUNITY USE AND SUPPORT SERVICES ............................................................................................ 8 1. Following are issues that should be considered relating to District partnerships with the community and

local agencies:........................................................................................................................................... 8 G. PLAYFIELDS, PLAYGROUNDS AND OUTDOOR EDUCATION .................................................................. 8

1. Playgrounds............................................................................................................................................... 8 2. Playfields ................................................................................................................................................... 8 3. Landscaping .............................................................................................................................................. 8

H. TRAFFIC CONTROL AND PARKING............................................................................................................. 8 1. Traffic Control ............................................................................................................................................ 9 2. Parking Area.............................................................................................................................................. 9

I. RECYCLING AND COMPOSTING TRANSFER CENTER ............................................................................. 9

PART III: CLASSROOM / AREA REQUIREMENTS................................................................................................ 9

A. STANDARD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL........................................................................................................... 9 1. KINDERGARTEN CLASSROOM.............................................................................................................. 9 2. ELEMENTARY CLASSROOM (GRADES 1 – 5) .................................................................................... 10 3. ELEMENTARY INTERVENTION / SUPPORT CLASSROOM ............................................................... 12

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Mill Valley School District - Educational Specifications Table of Contents - 2

4. SPECIAL DAY CLASS............................................................................................................................ 12 5. ELEMENTARY SCIENCE CLASSROOM............................................................................................... 13 6. ELEMENTARY ART ROOM.................................................................................................................... 14 7. ELEMENTARY MUSIC ROOM ............................................................................................................... 15 8. ELEMENTARY LIBRARY / MEDIA CENTER ......................................................................................... 15 9. ELEMENTARY MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM............................................................................................. 17 10. ELEMENTARY PE OFFICE.................................................................................................................... 18 11. ELEMENTARY COMMERCIAL KITCHEN.............................................................................................. 18 12. ELEMENTARY OUTDOOR FACILITIES ................................................................................................ 19 13. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION AREA............................................................................. 19 14. STUDENT RESTROOM.......................................................................................................................... 21 15. ADULT RESTROOM............................................................................................................................... 21 16. CUSTODIAL ROOM................................................................................................................................ 21 17. STAFF LOUNGE..................................................................................................................................... 21 18. STAFF WORKROOM.............................................................................................................................. 22 19. PUBLIC MEETING / RESOURCE ROOM .............................................................................................. 23

B. STANDARD MIDDLE SCHOOL .................................................................................................................... 24 1. MIDDLE SCHOOL CLASSROOM .......................................................................................................... 24 2. MIDDLE SCHOOL INTERVENTION / SUPPORT CLASSROOM (See Standard Elementary School) . 25 3. SPECIAL DAY CLASS (See Standard Elementary School) ................................................................... 25 4. MIDDLE SCHOOL SCIENCE LABORATORY CLASSROOM................................................................ 25 5. MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSIC CLASSROOM.............................................................................................. 26 6. MIDDLE SCHOOL ART STUDIO CLASSROOM.................................................................................... 26 7. MIDDLE SCHOOL LIBRARY .................................................................................................................. 27 8. MIDDLE SCHOOL COMPUTER LABORATORY ................................................................................... 28 9. MIDDLE SCHOOL THEATER CLASSROOM......................................................................................... 29 10. PERFORMING ARTS CENTER.............................................................................................................. 30 11. MIDDLE SCHOOL GYMNASIUM ........................................................................................................... 31 12. MIDDLE SCHOOL COMMERCIAL KITCHEN (See Standard Elementary School) ............................... 31 13. MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER ............................................................................... 31 14. MIDDLE SCHOOL OUTDOOR FACILITIES (See Elementary School Outdoor Facilities) .................... 32 15. MIDDLE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION AREA........................................................................................ 32 16. STUDENT RESTROOM (See Standard Elementary School)................................................................. 33 17. ADULT RESTROOM (See Standard Elementary School)...................................................................... 33 18. CUSTODIAL ROOM (See Standard Elementary School)....................................................................... 33 19. STAFF LOUNGE (See Standard Elementary School) ............................................................................ 33 20. STAFF WORKROOM (See Standard Elementary School)..................................................................... 33 21. PUBLIC MEETING / RESOURCE ROOM (See Standard Elementary School) ..................................... 34

C. DISTRICT FACILITIES .................................................................................................................................. 34 1. DISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE .................................................................................................. 34 2. DISTRICT WAREHOUSE ....................................................................................................................... 35 3. DISTRICT MAINTENANCE SHOP ......................................................................................................... 36 4. INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL CENTER (IMC) ...................................................................................... 36

PART IV: SCHOOL SITE INFORMATION ............................................................................................................. 38

A. EDNA MAGUIRE SCHOOL........................................................................................................................... 38 B. MILL VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL................................................................................................................. 39 C. OLD MILL SCHOOL ...................................................................................................................................... 39 D. PARK SCHOOL............................................................................................................................................. 40 E. STRAWBERRY POINT SCHOOL ................................................................................................................. 40 F. TAM VALLEY SCHOOL ................................................................................................................................ 41

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Mill Valley School District - Educational Specifications Page 1

PART I: EDUCATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS PURPOSE AND OVERVIEW

Educational Specifications serve as the link between the educational program of a school district and the specific school facilities. These specifications translate the physical requirements of an educational program into words, allowing architectural concepts and solutions to support the stated educational programs. The Educational Specifications serve as a “blueprint” for future facilities planning, containing concepts that are visionary and idealistic.

The following Educational Specifications for school design, based on Mill Valley School District goals, objectives, and policies, were prepared by individual Site Educational Specifications Committees and the District Administrative Council. Site committee members engaged each school community to determine what is desirable educationally, realizing that priorities and efficiencies will bring the educational ideal within project parameters. The District Administrative Council focused on the needs, objectives and goals of district wide educational programs for Mill Valley School District, considering current policies and procedures, along with the desired educational programs for future students within the District and school communities.

A. MILL VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT OVERVIEW

Nestled at the foot of Mount Tamalpais in Marin County, Mill Valley School District is thirteen miles north of San Francisco and is comprised of five elementary schools and one middle school. The schools in the District have consistently performed well above national averages, and rank in the top ten percent in California. For the 2008-2009 Academic Year, the District enrolled a total of 2,490, with 1,793 students enrolled in the elementary schools and 697 students in the Middle School. The District currently participates in the State’s Class Size Reduction Program for grades K-3. For grades kindergarten through third grade, the average class size was 19.2 students, and for fourth grade through eighth grade, the average class size was 23.0 students.

School Grades Year Built

Building Size

Site Size Student Enrollment1

Classrooms

Edna Maguire School

K-5 1956 51,132 sf 479,160 sf (11 acres)

415 4 Kindergarten 15 Standard

Mill Valley Middle School

6-8 1972 121,510 sf 796,280 sf (18.28 acres)

697 32 Core 17 Specialty

Old Mill School

K-5 1921 29,102 sf 108,900 sf (2.5 acres)


Park School

K-5 1940 36,746 sf 103,240 sf (2.37 acres)


Strawberry Point School

K-5 1952 36,778 sf 235,220 sf (5.4 acres)


Tam Valley School

K-5 1951 42,842 sf 357,190 sf (8.2 acres)


The types of building construction vary greatly from site to site given the diverse periods of construction (from the early 1920s through the 1970s). The facilities have been maintained relatively well through the years with various site and building improvement projects. The most recent significant construction work occurred in 1996 through 2001 with upgrades to various systems and expansion at a number of schools. Some system upgrades were postponed in order to prioritize more critical infrastructure issues. In 2007, the District began the process of taking a comprehensive inventory of facilities needs, starting with creating condition assessment reports for each of the schools.

Mill Valley School District is currently classified as a Basic Aid District, with 89%of its funding coming from local sources such as property taxes, parcel taxes, rental income from District properties, and donations from the community including the Mill Valley Schools Community Foundation / Kiddo!, and local PTAs. Approximately 11% of funding comes from state and federal resources. As a Basic Aid District, Mill Valley does not receive additional

1 Enrollment based upon October 2008 California Basic Educational Data System (CBEDS)

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funding as a result of increased enrollment. This provides funding challenges during times of economic downturn when tax revenues may slow as a result of property sales while enrollment increases as it has for the past four (4) years.

B. MILL VALLEY COMMUNITY OVERVIEW

Similar to nearby cities and towns in Marin County, Mill Valley benefitted from the strong economic upturn in the Bay Area which resulted in extraordinary real estate appreciation over the past decade. During the recent economic downturn, numbers of actual homes sold have dropped significantly since their peak in 2004.

The City of Mill Valley has experienced a decrease in overall population, falling from 13,600 in 20002 to approximately 13,250 in 20073 (a decline of approximately 3.1%). This is in contrast to recent student enrollment trends seen in the District. In the last four academic years, total District enrollment has shown the following annual increases: 534 (from 2004-05 to 2005-06); 47 (from 2005-06 to 2006-07), and 86 (from 2006-07 to 2007-08). Current projections indicate this upward trend may continue into future academic years. Data suggests that this could be a result of a large shift in concentration of young families buying homes between 2004 and 2007. However, given the current state of the economy and decreased home sales, further study is required to accurately determine the full extent of enrollment increases and whether these levels will be permanent. District decisions on future capital projects will depend greatly on this determination.

The community actively devotes time and funds to needed programs and services that lack sufficient support. The Mill Valley Schools Community Foundation / Kiddo!, is a non-profit organization that provides financial support for programs in art, music, drama, poetry, dance, classroom aides, and technology for K-8 students in the Mill Valley School District. Other organizations providing District support include the individual Parent Teacher Associations / Parent Teacher Student Association.

The community looks to the facilities of the District to meet educational needs, and to fill gaps in recreational and meeting spaces. The school fields are heavily used after school and on weekends for youth sports and programs. The District also helps to provide meeting facilities to community programs by opening classrooms, Libraries and Multi-Purpose Rooms, and playfields. Continuing and expanding partnerships with the community remain important goals for the District.

C. DISTRICT MISSION AND STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS

Mill Valley School District provides an educational program based on high academic standards. The mission statement of Mill Valley School District is:

“Our mission is to provide an excellent education that enables all students to achieve academic success and their full potential. We prepare our students to be responsible, contributing members of our community and wise stewards of our natural environment.”

The District, through the Board of Trustees and a strategic plan core team, developed a three-year Strategic Plan (beginning Academic Year 2007-2008) outlining four Strategic Plan Goals to accompany the District’s Mission. Strategic Plan Goals outlined were:

1. High Levels of Student Learning

We will strengthen and continuously improve instructional programs and practices that enable all students to be successful in rigorous academic programs, the arts, health and wellness, and character development.

a.) Assessment that measures success and informs instruction

b.) Clear expectations for success

c.) Academic and social-emotional Intervention and support

2 U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2000 3 www.city-data.com/city/Mill-Valley-California.htm 4 California Department of Education, Educational Demographics Unit, California Public Schools - School Report

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d.) Quality Professional Development

2. Excellent Staff

We will attract and retain excellent staff.

a.) Target total compensation in top quartile of comparable districts

b.) Continue to strengthen evaluation and support systems

c.) Establish norms, beliefs and practices that encourage collaboration, creativity and continuous improvement systems that are results focused

3. Communication and Community Inclusion

We will strengthen and improve staff, parents, and broader community support for our District and schools.

a.) Establish a compelling vision for our students’ futures

b.) Create core values that define our culture and commitment to success

c.) Improve communication systems between and among parents, staff, administration, trustees, and community at large

d.) Consistently engage community in achievement of district academic, financial and infrastructure goals

e.) Strengthen partnerships

f.) Improve internal communication processes

g.) Evaluate parent, community and staff satisfaction levels on an on-going basis through multiple measures

4. Sound Finance and Infrastructure

We will secure sustainable sources of operating and capital funding to allow the District to:

a.) Provide a high quality education

b.) Maintain prudent levels of reserves for a basic aid district

c.) Provide modern, well maintained facilities that support our mission, educational programs, and strategic plan

d.) Build and maintain the technology infrastructure necessary to support the district’s teaching, communication and administrative objectives

D. CURRICULUM DELIVERY

The District is committed to provide students with a core curriculum including the arts, based on learning experiences that actively engage students with staff, the community and the environment. Core academics including Mathematics, Literacy, Social Studies and Science are taught in all grades with key standards developed for each grade level and subject area. Each school has developed its own culture based on the characteristics of its facility and its surrounding environment and community, while still adhering to shared district-wide academic expectations. A number of schools have integrated outdoor spaces into the curriculum, connecting environmentally with their local communities.

1. General Principles

The following general principles help guide the District’s educational program:

a.) Learning goals focus on standards.

b.) Multiple intelligences and learning styles of students are recognized.

c.) Emphasis and implementation of best practices research supports children / adult learning theories.

d.) Project based learning provides student opportunities for application of instruction.


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e.) Flexible approaches to learning utilizing break out groups and group presentations.

f.) Differentiated instruction allows students to be challenged or supported at individual skill levels.

g.) Utilization of each school’s indoor and outdoor environment to foster engaged learning and enhance curriculum delivery.

h.) Teacher to teacher best practices are shared focusing on student achievement.

i.) Students not managing the entire curriculum focus on critical skills most needed to function independently.

j.) Intervention programs are provided for students not qualifying for special education or specialized support programs.

k.) Special Education students receive direct instruction with teachers aware of students’ Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goals.

l.) Team teaching and looping practices are considered

m.) Interruptions are limited during core learning time.

2. Staffing Ratios

Class size targets are designed to provide efficient instruction based on available funding: grades K-3 an average of 20 students per classroom (for participation in the State’s K-3 Class Size Reduction Program); grades 4-5 an average of 25 students; and grades 6-8 an average of 28 students within the core academic classes. Special Education Program staffing is based on the California Education Code. Site support staffing is based on the needs of the school to accommodate site enrollment numbers.

3. School Enrollment and Capacity

Currently, the District allows Mill Valley residents to indicate school preferences for registering new students for grades K-5. School assignment is then made using the following priority order: district placement needs, facility capacity, class size, proximity of residence to preferred school, and inter district attendance. (Administrative Regulation 5111.3 Student Enrollment And School Assignment, Board Policy 5111.3 Student Enrollment And School Assignment)

It is the District’s aim to realize the following enrollment objectives. Where the physical footprint allows, elementary schools shall accommodate 350-400 students. Space is planned to adjust grade levels if attendance patterns identify a need to change school configuration. Relatively equitable enrollment among schools is maintained; when not feasible, administrative and classroom support is provided for schools with higher enrollments. Mill Valley Middle School accommodates 650-750 students.

4. Grade Configuration

The current District program is delivered through a class configuration of K-5 at elementary, and grades 6-8 at middle school. Maintaining existing grade configurations may require increased class size and / or increased staffing costs. The District may explore alternative configurations for different campuses (e.g. K-2; 3-5; 6-8; K-8). The following issues will be examined:

a.) Mitigating class size issues specifically at the 4-5 grade level

b.) Impact on traffic patterns

c.) Stretching facility capacity

d.) Cross-grade interaction and student mentor relationships

e.) Providing Learning Centers for Special Day Class students in grade configurations of K-2, 3-5, 6-8

5. School Hours of Operation

School hours of operation 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. throughout the District support consistency and security. Appropriate student supervision during early morning and late afternoon educational programs allows access only to relevant campus areas.


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PART II: FACILITIES DESIGN AND FUNCTION

It is the District’s goal to create and maintain learning environments that are safe, warm, and dry that enable students to be successful in the District’s academic programs, the arts, health and wellness, and character development. The District will utilize design and building principles derived from best practices and concepts outlined by state and federal standards to create an environment that is energy efficient, healthy, comfortable, and contains the amenities necessary for a quality education. The following will be considered during design of the learning spaces.

A. GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

The following outlines general design considerations with respect to code compliance, appearance and function.

1. Code Compliance

a.) Comply with applicable codes governing structural systems and fire and life safety.

b.) Comply with applicable codes for education and school facilities construction.

c.) Comply with applicable codes governing accessibility and general safety (e.g. Title 24, Division of State Architect Access Compliance policies and interpretations of regulations) and related local, state and federal guidelines.

2. General Space Appearance and Adjacencies

a.) Classrooms should be clustered to reduce student travel time and to allow for supervision.

b.) At all campuses, it is the goal to group classrooms by grade to strengthen the sharing of resources and curriculum development.

c.) Organize to take advantage of smaller learning communities through group configuration.

d.) It is the goal to have the common areas within groups to be used for technology, small group instruction, conferencing, planning and storage.

e.) The library / media center at each school serves as the ‘hub’ of learning with easy access for students and staff.

f.) Create indoor and outdoor learning spaces for small group instruction and assessment that allow for collaborative teaching / dividing of classes and the flexibly to expand.

g.) The District shall establish a goal to replace portable classroom buildings with modular or stick constructed buildings, limiting portables for temporary use.

h.) Consider the use of multi-story buildings.

i.) Consider weather constraints for circulation and various outdoor activities (create covered areas for paths of travel, outdoor education, eating, pick up and drop off zones, etc.).

3. Sustainability

a.) Reduce impacts on future generations by integrating building materials and methods that promote environmental quality, economic vitality, and social benefit through the design, construction and operation of our built environment.

b.) Considerations include energy efficiency, maintainability, system life cycle costs, and system standardization across school sites.

4. Flexibility

a.) District space is designed for flexible and diverse use. All spaces are designed to accommodate best practices as they relate to educational programs and community participation.

b.) Design space designations based on wet features, allowing art, science or cooking activities.

c.) Design space designations based on dry features, allowing music, technology, theater or graphic art activities.


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d.) Design for different grade levels to occupy a learning space.

e.) Consider readily available resources to convert areas to specific needs (moveable furniture / equipment to allow multiple configurations and associated storage).

B. BUILDING SYSTEMS

1. Climate Control

a.) Energy efficient, low maintenance systems.

b.) Consider opportunities where proven geothermal heating and cooling technology can be utilized.

c.) Consider integrating an energy management system for central monitoring and control by the District.

d.) Maximize use of operable windows and skylights for natural ventilation.

2. Power and Lighting

a.) Consider programmable timer and / or motion sensors for lighting systems.

b.) Maximize use of natural lighting in building design.

c.) Integrate non-glare windows and non-glare light fixtures in designs.

d.) Consider lighting controls and fixtures that allow adjustment of light levels for instructional spaces.

e.) Consider alternative energy source to power district facilities (e.g. solar, wind, geothermal)

3. Communications

a.) All classrooms and specialized rooms have telephones with the ability to communicate within the facility, communicate with the District Office, and outside of the District.

b.) All schools will be equipped with public address and intercom systems (accessible to entire school).

c.) All schools will be equipped with clock and bell systems (clocks in all instructional and office spaces).

d.) Consider use of integrated, multi-functional systems.

e.) All schools will have both audible and visual alarms for fire or emergency.

f.) District Office will have direct communication with Marin County Office of Education (MCOE) emergency notification system.

4. Technology

a.) It is the District’s goal to create a technology infrastructure necessary to support the District’s teaching, communication and administrative objectives.

b.) Access to technology is available to all classrooms and administrative offices. This is accomplished within a flexible classroom setting that can deliver instruction with the integration of technology into learning.

c.) Make provisions for the Special Education program’s use of technology-based instructional materials.

d.) Consider classroom integration of technologies such as interactive white board technology, digital projectors and associated screens, and teacher audio amplification technology for instruction.

e.) Hard wired connectivity to the network remains the standard for classrooms, other teaching areas, and administrative offices.

f.) The application of wireless technology, while a secondary strategy, provides flexibility and expands areas in which instruction through technology integration can occur

C. SECURITY

Mill Valley School District provides secure facilities for students, staff, and families with best practice approaches, such as controlled entrances and lighting. Consideration must be given to balancing the District’s ability to monitor and control its school sites while still providing access to the community.


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1. Site Layout:

a.) Consider limited number of campus access points with visible site lines from staff occupied areas.

b.) Layout allows law enforcement to visually survey the campus from the street.

c.) Create a clearly identifiable main entry for each campus.

d.) Priority must be given for easy access of emergency response (law enforcement, fire rescue; and medical emergency response).

e.) Connect entry and egress for spaces commonly used by the community directly to the exterior.

2. Physical Features:

a.) Facilities utilize appropriate fencing and landscaping to establish and secure the campus boundary while encouraging community use.

b.) Consider flexible barriers that can be adjusted to route visitors to Main Office for check-in during school hours.

c.) For afterhours security, install sufficient site lighting at main access points and paths of travel between buildings and parking areas.

d.) Utilize a combination of permanent and motion sensor lighting.

3. Security System:

a.) Consider installation of a site security system that can be programmed by zone to allow afterhours use by staff and the community. The system is tied directly to local law enforcement and can be centrally monitored by the District.

D. SIGNAGE

1. Create signage that clearly defines campus way-finding and operational hours:

a.) Install standardized signage that clearly identifies the Main Entry to each of the campuses.

b.) Post a campus map, and the flexibility to display additional information (special instructions, event notices, etc.). Identify and provide clear directions for spaces commonly used by the community (Multi-purpose Rooms, Gymnasiums, Performing Arts Rooms, and Play Fields).

c.) Create signage and road markings to assist in pedestrian safety at traffic areas.

d.) Clearly identify / label all buildings and rooms on the exterior of the buildings.

E. STORAGE

1. The following are site storage considerations:

These are in addition to the detailed considerations included in the Part III.

a.) Create storage at each school site for emergency preparedness supplies and equipment (weatherproof and easily accessible).

b.) Staging area for large deliveries of equipment and supplies.

c.) Centrally located site storage for instructional materials (to facilitate resources sharing and collaboration on curriculum development).

d.) General storage for furniture items such as folding chairs, tables, and easels.

e.) Storage areas are ventilated, lockable and are easily accessible.

f.) Consider storage for traffic safety equipment (locations vary by site).

g.) Install bike racks at a ratio of 1 bike for 1/3 of the entire site population.


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F. COMMUNITY USE AND SUPPORT SERVICES

The community uses District facilities to meet educational needs, and to fill gaps in recreational and meeting spaces. School fields are heavily used after school and on weekends. Meeting facilities are provided to the community by opening classrooms, libraries and multi-purpose rooms. Continuing and expanding partnerships with the community remain important goals for the District. As community partnerships evolve, and as the availability of community support programs changes, facilities requirements will need to be re-evaluated.

1. Following are issues that should be considered relating to District partnerships with the community and local agencies:

a.) Consider impact of leased spaces (child-care, pre-school, other private schools) on school's needs.

b.) Consider impacts on school resulting from relationships with Marin County Office of Education, Tamalpais Union High School District, City of Mill Valley Parks and Recreation, and other local agencies.

G. PLAYFIELDS, PLAYGROUNDS AND OUTDOOR EDUCATION

Mill Valley School District emphasizes health and wellness that is sustainable for students beyond their school years. Mill Valley Schools provide a rich outdoor experience, capitalizing on campus location resources. The District shall create safe environments that support the development of social / emotional and physical health of employees and students. The guidelines set forth by the federal, state, county and district regulations regarding physical education and health and wellness serve as the basis for program development.

Playgrounds provide sufficient space and appropriate equipment to satisfy State of California guidelines. Outdoor spaces are designed to comply with all State accessibility requirements. School playgrounds are used for the supervised play program after school hours for student activities. Following are general considerations guiding design of various outdoor spaces. Detailed considerations are included in the Part III.

1. Playgrounds

a.) Playgrounds and play structures comply with applicable codes and guidelines.

b.) Design considers sight lines for playground supervision.

c.) Playground surfaces shall be level and impact absorbing.

d.) Construct drainage systems to prevent pooling in play areas and to drain water away from buildings and foundation walls.

2. Playfields

a.) Field size meets or exceeds the physical educational goals and guidelines of the State of California.

b.) Create easy access to waste disposal / recycling stations at and near community use spaces.

3. Landscaping

a.) Utilize drought-resistant, low maintenance native plants.

b.) Install low water consumption irrigation systems.

c.) Protect planted areas from general foot traffic and ball play areas.

d.) Consider creating area for outdoor amphitheater for ceremonies and theater productions.

H. TRAFFIC CONTROL AND PARKING

Mill Valley School District strives to develop solutions to optimize traffic flow around school facilities through road access, school hours times, bikeway and walkway access. To ensure pedestrian safety, the District will apply best practices that separate students and vehicles.


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1. Traffic Control

a.) Create clearly identified drop-off and pick-up areas that separate students from school traffic, vehicle general traffic flow, and the parking lot.

b.) Consider separate drop-off and pick-up areas for Kindergarten students

c.) Consider needs of individuals with disabilities.

d.) Create physical barriers separating pedestrians from traffic.

e.) Construct clear and wide paths of travel for pedestrian use.

f.) Utilize clear road markings, signage, and lighting to assist directing vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

g.) Consider covered areas for pick-up and drop-off zones.

h.) Consider sight lines for supervision of vehicle and pedestrian circulation.

i.) Consider traffic controls for service and delivery access, and keeping this separate from common foot traffic areas.

j.) Consider traffic and site access needs for emergency response vehicles.

2. Parking Area

a.) Consider parking space requirements for staff, volunteers, visitors, itinerant staff and other service providers.

b.) Locate visitor parking close to main entry for each school.

c.) Clearly mark dedicated school staff parking.

d.) Install sufficient lighting at parking areas.

e.) Consider creating separate parking lot for staff only, with mechanical entry gates.

f.) Design the parking area layout to allow for efficient traffic flow entering / exiting and within the lot.

I. RECYCLING AND COMPOSTING TRANSFER CENTER

For each campus, it is the District’s goal to create a centralized recycling and composting collection space that is easily accessible to outside collection vendors and to staff members to drop off recyclables or compostable materials. These collection spaces have open ventilation and secure settings with room for individual classroom recycling and composting carts. The area is fenced or otherwise isolated and away from common foot traffic areas.

PART III: CLASSROOM / AREA REQUIREMENTS

A. STANDARD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Following are core spaces for use in the Standard Elementary School. In addition to the requirements and considerations previously outlined, the following requirements are listed.

1. KINDERGARTEN CLASSROOM

a.) Activities / Space Use Plan:

▪ Large and small group instruction

▪ Individual and small group work projects

▪ Large and small group play

▪ Individual and group work with computer workstations

▪ Kindergarten Teacher collaboration meetings

▪ 1-on-1 assessment


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b.) Space / Infrastructure Requirements:

▪ Minimum 1,400 sf

▪ Restrooms are self-contained within classroom or within the Kindergarten complex: (1) Restroom with (3) toilets for every (2) Classrooms

▪ Power / data infrastructure sufficient for technology and equipment needs

▪ Consider outlet locations at counters

▪ (2) Exits: (1) to egress, and (1) to outside Kindergarten age appropriate play area

▪ (1) Single basin sink (adult height: 32”)

▪ (1) Single basin sink / Drinking Fountain (child height: 24“)

▪ Flooring: Resilient flooring at wet areas (entrances and sinks); and carpet at all other areas

▪ Operable windows with safety glass (appropriate height for Kindergarten-age students)

▪ Consider interior finish options for sound absorption (acoustical wall panels, ceiling systems, flooring)

▪ Room adjacencies: Cluster Kindergarten classrooms together and away from other grades; near school office and staff kitchen; near daycare space; classrooms are located close to parent drop-off and pick-up areas

c.) Miscellaneous Features:

▪ One wall with attached upper and base cabinets (counter heights 34” and 24”)

▪ Open shelves for books and 3D displays with free floor area underneath for loose storage (storage tubs, etc.)

▪ Storage for student coats and bags: cubbies with hooks underneath, (1) per student

▪ Lockable cabinet for teacher storage

▪ Tackable wall surfaces

▪ Outdoor message board (adjacent to an entry door)

▪ Provisions for hanging displays above the occupant's heads (hooks and wire hangers)

▪ (2) 4’ x 8’ whiteboards with map rails, locate whiteboards on opposing walls if possible

▪ Blackout window covering / shades for all interior and exterior windows

d.) Equipment / Furniture:

▪ Access to, and connectivity for the laptop cart program

▪ Teacher workstation with space for computer

▪ Computer for teacher with peripheral equipment

▪ (1) DVD / VCR player and associated monitor or digital projector and screen

▪ (2) File cabinets

▪ Student desks (appropriate height for kindergarten students)

▪ Movable tables

2. ELEMENTARY CLASSROOM (GRADES 1 – 5)


▪ Large and small group instruction

▪ Small group collaboration

▪ Multiple grade level instruction and interaction



November 2008

▪ Instructor science demonstrations and individual science projects

▪ International language instruction using language labs

▪ Literature circles

▪ Private space for conferences with and by children


▪ Minimum 960 sf for the standard classroom


▪ Consider outlets in floor and counters


▪ (1) Single basin sink / drinking fountain (child height: 28“)


▪ Operable windows with safety glass for natural ventilation


▪ Room Adjacencies: Consider clustering classrooms of similar grades with a common area for specialized instruction, conferencing and quiet study; near library; near central storage space; near restrooms; near school office


▪ One wall with upper and base cabinets (counter heights 34” and 28”)

▪ Lockable storage


▪ Storage drawers for art portfolios 2’ x 3’



▪ Storage for professional resources

▪ Tackable wall surfaces (all open walls)

▪ Provisions for hanging displays from the ceiling (hooks and wires hangers)









▪ (1) Display case adjacent to entrance

▪ Student desks (age appropriate sizing)

▪ Movable tables


November 2008

3. ELEMENTARY INTERVENTION / SUPPORT CLASSROOM


▪ Small group and 1-on-1 instruction in various subjects

▪ Curriculum for English Language Learners (ELL) integrates dance


▪ See “Elementary Classroom”

▪ Layout / space to accommodate concurrent sessions of at least two teachers with 1-5 students each (dimensions: ~400 sf per teaching)

▪ Room Adjacencies: Centrally located relative to classrooms; adjacent to Special Education classrooms.




▪ (2) Teacher workstations with space for computers

▪ (2) Computers for Teachers with peripheral equipment

▪ Consider portable room dividers for separating teaching / study spaces




▪ Movable tables: (2) round, (1) kidney-shaped, (3) rectangular

▪ Movable bookshelves

4. SPECIAL DAY CLASS


▪ Resource program

▪ Occupational therapy

▪ Speech and language program

▪ Student evaluation

▪ Multiple grade level instruction and interaction

▪ Utilization of technology-based instructional material with student learning


▪ See “Elementary Classroom”, refer to State Education Code for area requirements based on disability

▪ Layout / space to accommodate concurrent instruction / meetings of small groups and individuals

▪ Consider addition of designated support spaces including: speech specialist area, psychologist, counseling offices and conference area if not utilizing adjacent to school office.

▪ Room Adjacencies: Adjacent to restrooms, school office (for access to Psychologist, counseling, conference / meeting rooms), general classrooms, intervention / support classrooms, library; direct access to exterior space designated for Special Education program use; no more than (2) Special Education classes are clustered together.




November 2008


▪ (2) Teacher workstations with space for computers

▪ (2) Computers for teachers with peripheral equipment

▪ (8) Student computers

▪ Consider portable room dividers for separating teaching / study spaces


▪ File cabinets

▪ Area rug

▪ Movable tables

5. ELEMENTARY SCIENCE CLASSROOM


▪ Large and small group instruction in science and outdoor learning



▪ Minimum 1,300 sf for the science classroom


▪ Consider ventilation for science demonstrations


▪ (1) Single basin sink / drinking fountain (child height: 28“)

▪ Flooring: Resilient flooring


▪ Room Adjacencies: Adjacent to school's garden, restrooms.



▪ Lockable storage for science instruction equipment


▪ Storage drawers

▪ Teacher demonstration table with space for computer



▪ Storage for professional resources







▪ Overhead lab mirror (over teacher demonstration area)


November 2008




▪ Movable tables

6. ELEMENTARY ART ROOM


▪ Large and small group instruction in traditional art techniques

▪ Individual and group work on laptops (web-based curriculum / multi-media projects)



▪ Consider larger room (up to 1,300 sf) to accommodate work tables and additional display spaces


▪ Consider ventilation for art project production

▪ (1) Single basin sink, 10-12” deep, with high spouts (adult height: 32”)

▪ (3) Single basin sinks, 10-12” deep, with high spouts / drinking fountains (child height: 28“)

▪ Consider availability of hot water



▪ At least (1) Double door entry - access for carts, equipment, supply deliveries

▪ Room Adjacencies: Located adjacent to restrooms; near service driveway for large deliveries of equipment / supplies



▪ Lockable storage for art projects, art tools / supplies

▪ Lockable storage drawers for art portfolios 2’ x 3’






▪ (1) 4’ x 8’ whiteboards with map rails






▪ (10) Folding tables (3’x6’)

▪ (1) Easy maintenance rug (9’x12’)



November 2008


▪ Movable tables

7. ELEMENTARY MUSIC ROOM


▪ Instruction of instrumental and choral music

▪ Individual and group work on laptops (music composition / web-based curriculum / multi-media projects)



▪ Consider larger room (up to 1,500 sf) to accommodate large choral / instrumental group use (up to 60 students) and additional storage requirements for instruments / equipment


▪ (1) Single basin sink / Drinking Fountain, 10-12” deep, with high spouts (adult height: 32”)


▪ Interior finish options for sound absorption (acoustical wall panels, ceiling systems, flooring)

▪ Room Adjacencies: Located adjacent to multi-purpose room, restrooms; direct access from service driveway for movement of instruments. Not adjacent to any non music classrooms.


▪ Lockable cabinets with shelves for music instrument / equipment storage for 30 students

▪ Lockable storage for music instruction resources




▪ (2) 4’ x 8’ whiteboards with map rails: (1) music notation whiteboard, (1) standard whiteboard





▪ (1) Easy maintenance circular rug for 25-30 students (12-15’ diameter)

▪ (30) Stacking stools / chairs


▪ (1) File cabinet

▪ (3) Display cases

▪ Movable tables

8. ELEMENTARY LIBRARY / MEDIA CENTER


▪ Large and small group instruction / collaboration / research (capacity for up to 60 students)

▪ Private spaces for individual student research and study

▪ Private spaces for learning with audio media

▪ Literature Circles


November 2008

▪ Extended hours use as resource center for adults and students

▪ Books and media are rotated


▪ Minimum 1,820 sf (open area seating at tables for up to 60 students, and reading circles)

▪ Additional area for storage shelving for books and media (up to 600 linear feet floor mounted and wall mounted units) with minimum 42" aisles between stack shelving

▪ Storage shelving unit height: 36”-42”

▪ Adjacent storage room (up to 400 sf) with open shelves (misc media, book carts)

▪ (1) Single basin sink / Drinking Fountain (child height: 28“)

▪ Adjacent office space (up to 100 sf) for library staff





▪ Room Adjacencies: Central school campus location


▪ Circulation desk area

▪ Lockable storage cabinets for media equipment

▪ Lockable cabinet for staff storage

▪ Storage for special education and intervention professional resources

▪ Integrate private reading spaces (window benches, nooks)




▪ "Book Drop" slot at or adjacent to entrance




▪ Librarian work station with space for computer

▪ Library checkout desk with space for computer

▪ Mobile book shelves

▪ Computers (up to 14) with peripheral equipment



▪ (1) Copy machine (consider (2))


▪ Movable tables


November 2008

9. ELEMENTARY MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM


▪ Physical Education

▪ Rainy day lunch

▪ School performances and assemblies

▪ Community events

▪ Essential services facility (emergency use)


▪ Area capacity for entire school population (depending on site area limits and layout preferences by site, ranges ~ 5,000-10,000 sf)

▪ Ceiling height: 18’-24’ (for clearance of light fixtures for physical education activities)

▪ Stage (variable, ~ 1,000 sf); dimensions of stage platform and proscenium dependent on available space

▪ Storage room for stage equipment, scenery, costumes, emergency supplies (~300 sf)

▪ Storage location for chairs / tables / PE equipment (~300 sf)

▪ Consider space for PE Office

▪ Restrooms (boys, girls, adult)

▪ Power / data infrastructure sufficient for stage performance, sound systems and PE equipment needs

▪ Stage lighting system

▪ Integrated sound system with wireless microphone system

▪ Consider integration of operable partition wall for subdividing room

▪ Ventilation: Natural ventilation, consider ceiling fans / forced air cooling units

▪ (1) Single basin sink, 10-12” deep, with high spout / drinking fountain (locate backstage)

▪ Drinking fountains

▪ Flooring: Indoor multi-use sports floor (shock / noise absorbing, easy maintenance, integrated game lines)


▪ Room Adjacencies: Adjacent to restrooms, school kitchen, music room, PE Office, parking lot, service drive


▪ Stage curtains

▪ Operable projection screen / canvas backdrop

▪ Game lines: up to (2) basketball courts, up to (4) volleyball courts, (1) indoor soccer

▪ Up to (4) retractable basketball goals

▪ Consider retractable tables / benches


▪ (1) Bulletin board (tackable surface)

▪ Consider interior finish options for sound absorption (acoustical wall panels, ceiling systems)


▪ Display cases


November 2008

10. ELEMENTARY PE OFFICE


▪ Physical Education class preparation


▪ Minimum 300 sf

▪ Computer for teacher(s) with peripheral equipment

▪ Teacher(s) desks with room for computer



▪ Room Adjacencies: Adjacent to PE equipment storage, multi-purpose room, outdoor facilities



▪ Tackable wall surfaces

▪ Outdoor message board (adjacent to an entry door)




▪ File cabinet(s)

11. ELEMENTARY COMMERCIAL KITCHEN


▪ Food storage / preparation / service

▪ School lunch program

▪ School event catering

▪ Community event catering


▪ Design to comply with Marin County Environmental Health Services permitting and plan approval requirements.

▪ Serving windows

▪ Area Adjacencies: Adjacent to multi-purpose room, outdoor lunch area, restrooms, service drive, parking lot.


▪ (1) 4’ x 8’ whiteboard



▪ Commercial grade equipment and storage facilities

▪ (1) Computer workstation

▪ File cabinets

▪ Recycling / composting bins


November 2008

12. ELEMENTARY OUTDOOR FACILITIES


▪ Physical education

▪ Recess

▪ Outdoor education

▪ Dining

▪ School performances and assemblies

▪ Community Use


▪ General area capacity (dependent on site area limits)

▪ Minimum area capacity used for structured PE activities (capacity for 60 students)

▪ Construct shade structure for eating and general student use

▪ Hard surface area

▪ Consider turf area

▪ Designated Kindergarten play area

▪ Consider designated play areas for primary and upper grades

▪ Consider outdoor amphitheater (platform and associated seating)

▪ Storage room for PE equipment

▪ Restrooms (boys, girls and adult)

▪ Power / data infrastructure sufficient for equipment needs (at stage: outdoor sound system, lighting, video presentations, and at covered areas)

▪ Drinking fountains

▪ Area Adjacencies: Adjacent to school office, kitchen, PE office, restrooms, covered lunch area.

▪ Service drive shall not access through areas designated for student use.


▪ Outdoor lighting in addition to general site lighting (outdoor stage, covered areas)

▪ Game lines: (4) basketball courts, (4) volleyball courts, track, soccer, hockey, football, baseball, and miscellaneous

▪ Construct ball walls

▪ Consider play structure for each designated play area (Kindergarten, primary grades, upper grades)

▪ (1) Display board (posting behavior guidelines, and events)


▪ Tables and benches

13. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION AREA


▪ Primary check-in point for school

▪ Office and conferencing space for school administrative staff

▪ Medical aid

▪ Storage space for school records


November 2008

▪ Counseling for students and families


▪ Designated spaces for:

- Principal - Administrative staff - Reception area / desk - Health office - Conference room - Small office / meeting room(s) - Staff restroom - Health office restroom - Storage closet

▪ Principal’s Office: in addition to space for desk / storage, consider meeting area for up to eight (8)

▪ Health Office: Area for (1) bed / cot

▪ Reception area includes space for chairs, free wall for bulletin board, clear path for deliveries

▪ Conference Room: space to accommodate meetings of up to 12

▪ Small Office / Meeting Rooms(s) are used for itinerant staff (counseling / psychologist)

▪ At Principal’s Office - (2) exits: (1) direct egress to exterior, and (1) toward reception area

▪ Controls for PA, telecom, security, fire alarm (secured location near Principal’s office)

▪ Interior windows to monitor corridor access


▪ Flooring: Resilient flooring at health office and waiting area; carpet at other spaces


▪ Room Adjacencies: Locate prominently next to school main entry; restroom located directly adjacent to health office; clear site line for clerical staff to health office; near Kindergarten classrooms, pick-up and drop-off zones, visitor parking lot


▪ Workstations for admin staff with space for computers and free workspace at reception area

▪ Upper and base cabinets (counter height 34”) at reception area

▪ Lockable storage for emergency equipment and medical supplies at health office

▪ (1) Bulletin board at main reception area (tackable surface)

▪ Whiteboards at offices / meeting spaces




▪ File cabinets

▪ Display cases

▪ Computers and peripheral equipment for principal, secretary

▪ Copier


November 2008

14. STUDENT RESTROOM

a.) Space / Infrastructure Requirements:

▪ Ratio of Water Closets to Students (comply with California Plumbing Code)

▪ Room Adjacencies: Outdoor restrooms having direct outside access are located in areas that are visible from playground and easily supervised.

b.) Miscellaneous Features:

▪ Safety mirrors

▪ Ceiling mounted exhaust fans at interior restroom locations

▪ Low-flow toilet fixtures

▪ Waterless urinals

15. ADULT RESTROOM


▪ Ratio of Water Closets to Staff (comply with California Plumbing Code)

▪ Room Adjacencies: Outdoor restrooms having direct outside access are located in areas that are visible from playground and easily supervised.


▪ Safety mirrors

▪ Ceiling mounted exhaust fans at interior restroom locations

▪ Low-flow toilet fixtures

▪ Waterless urinals

16. CUSTODIAL ROOM


▪ Administrative desk / workstation

▪ Power sufficient for equipment needs

▪ Sink with deep basin

▪ Mop sink

▪ Floor: sealed concrete with coved base

▪ Room Adjacencies: Central campus location.


▪ Secured storage for cleaning chemicals

▪ Open storage shelves, and wall hooks

▪ Ceiling mounted exhaust fans

17. STAFF LOUNGE


▪ Staff Meetings

▪ Lesson preparation space and professional development

▪ Food preparation and dining



November 2008

▪ Area capacity for seating up to 40 adults

▪ Consider addition of adjoining lockable storage closet


▪ (1) Sink with deep basin (adult height: 32”)

▪ Hot and cold water


▪ Operable windows


▪ Room Adjacencies: Adjacent to school office, staff restrooms, central storage space, and direct access to outside space designated for staff use.


▪ Upper and base cabinets (counter heights 34”)

▪ Open shelves for resource materials

▪ (2) 4’ x 8’ whiteboards with map rails. Locate whiteboards on opposing walls if possible



▪ Kitchen equipment: refrigerator, stove, microwave, garbage disposal.


▪ Couch(s)

▪ Chairs

▪ (8) tables (consider oval)

▪ Movable bookshelves

▪ Tables and benches at outside staff space

18. STAFF WORKROOM


▪ Staff production area for projects

▪ Lesson preparation space and professional development

▪ Mail distribution for staff


▪ Physically separate from Staff Lounge

▪ ~ 600 sf


▪ (1) Sink with deep basin (adult height: 32”)

▪ Hot and cold water

▪ Flooring: Resilient flooring at wet areas (entrances and sinks); and Carpet at all other areas


▪ Consider ceiling fan(s)

▪ Room Adjacencies: Adjacent to staff lounge, school office, staff restrooms, central storage space


November 2008



▪ Center island with storage

▪ Open shelves resource materials

▪ Mail boxes




▪ (4) Teacher workstations with space for computer

▪ Consider (1) Computer with peripheral equipment

▪ Production equipment: copy machines, laminating machine

▪ Movable tables

19. PUBLIC MEETING / RESOURCE ROOM


▪ Meetings (PTA, Site Council, miscellaneous volunteer groups, etc.)

▪ Community group gatherings (Scouts, Neighborhood Emergency

▪ Adult educational resource center

▪ Project production


▪ Area capacity for meetings and gatherings of up to 25 adults

▪ Consider addition of adjoining office designated as “PTA Office” (~100 sf) with workstation, files storage, and private meeting space.


▪ Flooring: Resilient flooring at all areas

▪ Operable windows


▪ Room Adjacencies: Adult restrooms, visitor parking lot, multi-purpose room; directly accessible from building exterior.



▪ Full height lockable cabinets for supplies (signs, large production materials)

▪ Open shelves resource materials

▪ (1) 4’ x 8’ whiteboard

▪ (2) Bulletin Boards: (1) interior and (1) exterior of room


▪ Conference table (seating for 15-20)

▪ File cabinets

▪ Appropriate seating

▪ Access to a portable DVD / VCR player and associated monitor or digital projector and screen


November 2008

B. STANDARD MIDDLE SCHOOL

Following are core spaces for educational and staff use in the Standard Middle School. In addition to the requirements and considerations previously outlined, the following requirements are listed.

1. MIDDLE SCHOOL CLASSROOM


▪ Large and small group instruction in various subjects (programs are designed to allow specialized math and world language courses along with a wide range of electives)


▪ “Socratic Seminar” approach

▪ Individual and group work on computers (web-based curriculum / multi-media projects)


▪ International language instruction using language labs


▪ Minimum 960 sf for the standard classroom (up to 30 students)


▪ (1) Single basin sink / drinking fountain




▪ Room Adjacencies: Cluster classrooms by grade with a common area for specialized instruction, conferencing and quiet study; adjacent to library, restrooms


▪ One wall with upper and base cabinets

▪ Lockable storage for miscellaneous equipment

▪ Open shelves for books and 3D displays with free floor area underneath for loose storage

▪ Storage drawers for large production materials (2’ x 3’)


▪ Consider student lockers at common area outside of classrooms









▪ File cabinets


▪ Student desks


November 2008

2. MIDDLE SCHOOL INTERVENTION / SUPPORT CLASSROOM (See Standard Elementary School)

3. SPECIAL DAY CLASS (See Standard Elementary School)

4. MIDDLE SCHOOL SCIENCE LABORATORY CLASSROOM


▪ Large and small group instruction in various subjects


▪ “Socratic Seminar” approach




▪ Minimum 1,300 sf for the standard science classroom

▪ Power / data / water / gas infrastructure sufficient for technology and lab needs

▪ Layout: Teacher demonstration table at front of room, student lab stations at room perimeter, open space in center of room for student desks

▪ Ventilation hoods

▪ Emergency response area includes shower / floor drain, eyewash station, emergency response kit




▪ Room Adjacencies: Cluster classrooms of similar grades with a common area for specialized instruction, conferencing and quiet study; Adjacent to library, restrooms


▪ Upper and base wall cabinets with lockable storage


▪ Teacher demonstration table with sink, and hook-ups for gas, electrical

▪ Student lab stations with sink, and hook-ups for gas, electrical at room perimeter



▪ (2) 4’ x 8’ whiteboards with map rails locate whiteboards on opposing walls if possible






▪ Overhead lab mirror (over teacher demonstration area)


▪ File cabinets


November 2008


▪ Student desks, lab stools

▪ Movable tables

5. MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSIC CLASSROOM


▪ Instruction of instrumental and choral music

▪ Rehearsal space for school productions

▪ Individual music practice


▪ Area capacity to accommodate large performance group's use (up to 80 students)


▪ Consider space for addition of ensemble rehearsal room (~350 sf)

▪ Consider space for addition of individual practice room(s) (~50 sf)

▪ Consider space requirements for portable risers setup and storage

▪ (1) Single basin sink, 10-12” deep, with high spouts / drinking fountain (adult height: 32”)


▪ Interior finish options for sound absorption (acoustical wall panels, ceiling systems, flooring)

▪ Room Adjacencies: Located adjacent to performing arts center, restrooms, gymnasium, and stage: direct access from service driveway


▪ Lockable cabinets with shelves for music instrument / equipment storage for 80 students

▪ Lockable storage for music instruction resources



▪ (2) 4’ x 8’ whiteboards with map rails: (1) music notation whiteboard, (1) standard whiteboard

▪ Locate whiteboards on opposing walls if possible





▪ Portable risers to fit 80 students

▪ (80) Stacking stools / chairs


▪ (1) File cabinet

▪ (3) Display cases

▪ Movable tables

6. MIDDLE SCHOOL ART STUDIO CLASSROOM


▪ Large and small group instruction in traditional art techniques


November 2008



▪ Area capacity to accommodate art program requirements for work tables and additional display spaces (up to 1,500 sf)

▪ Consider space requirements for ceramic arts projects (kiln)

▪ Consider space requirements for art technology lab (computer workstations)


▪ Consider ventilation requirements for art project production (dust, fumes, kiln)

▪ (4) Single basin sink, 10-12” deep, with high spouts / (1) drinking fountain

▪ Consider availability of hot water


▪ At least (1) Double door entry - access for carts, equipment, supplies

▪ Room Adjacencies: Near Restrooms, Service driveway



▪ Lockable storage for art projects, art tools / supplies, chemicals

▪ Lockable storage drawers for up to 200 student art portfolios 2’ x 3’

▪ Open shelves for books and 3D displays with free floor area underneath for loose storage




▪ (2) 4’ x 8’ whiteboards with map rails locate whiteboards on opposing walls if possible



▪ (15) Student computers with peripheral equipment



▪ Display cases

▪ Movable tables

7. MIDDLE SCHOOL LIBRARY


▪ Large and small group instruction / collaboration / research (capacity for 60 students)

▪ Private spaces for individual student research and study

▪ Private spaces for learning with audio media

▪ Literature circles

▪ Extended hours use as resource center for adults and students

▪ Books and media are rotated based on subject


▪ Minimum 5,000 sf (open area seating at tables for up to 60 students, and reading circles, storage of up to 25,000 volumes of books / media)


November 2008

▪ Adjacent storage room (up to 400 sf) with open shelves (misc media, book carts)

▪ Consider break-out room(s) for small group work / student research (~200 sf)

▪ (1) Single basin sink / drinking fountain



▪ Flooring: Carpet



▪ Room Adjacencies: Central school campus location, adjacent to computer laboratory


▪ Circulation desk area



▪ Storage for special education and intervention professional resources

▪ Integrate private reading spaces (window benches, nooks)




▪ (1) Bulletin Board

▪ “Book Drop” slot at or adjacent to entrance



▪ Student research computers (up to 30) with peripheral equipment

▪ Librarian work station with space for desktop computer

▪ (2) Computers at circulation desk (book check-out)

▪ Mobile book shelves and carts


▪ File cabinets

▪ (2) Copy machines

▪ Library tables and chairs (age appropriate sizing)

8. MIDDLE SCHOOL COMPUTER LABORATORY




▪ Minimum 960 sf (30 students)

▪ Adjacent workroom / secured storage for laptop carts and for Technology Specialist use (technology equipment maintenance)


▪ Ventilated space (consider forced air cooling)


November 2008

▪ Flooring: Carpet


▪ (2) Exits: (1) exterior egress, and (1) direct access to Library

▪ Room Adjacencies: Adjacent to Library


▪ Lockable cabinets (computer / media equipment storage)



▪ (2) 4’ x 8’ whiteboards with map rails. Locate whiteboards on opposing walls if possible




▪ (30) Student workstations

▪ (30) Computers with peripheral equipment



9. MIDDLE SCHOOL THEATER CLASSROOM


▪ Theater program instruction

▪ Class theater productions


▪ Area capacity for seating 60 students

▪ Stage area: ~ 600 sf

▪ Consider stage lighting system

▪ Consider integrated sound system

▪ Consider adjoining secured storage area for stage equipment, scenery, costumes (~250 sf)


▪ (1) Single basin sink, 10-12” deep, with high spout / drinking fountain

▪ Flooring: Carpet at open seating area, resilient flooring at stage and storage room

▪ Room Adjacencies: Adjacent to performing arts center, restrooms, music room, service drive


▪ Stage curtains

▪ Lockable storage space for props and costumes

▪ Operable projection screen / canvas backdrop

▪ (1) 4’ x 8’ whiteboard with map rail


▪ Interior finish options for sound absorption (acoustical wall panels, ceiling systems)



November 2008


▪ Movable raised platforms for stage

▪ Display cases


10. PERFORMING ARTS CENTER


▪ School / Community Performances

▪ Music concerts

▪ Theatrical productions

▪ Guest speakers

▪ Graduation

▪ School-wide assemblies


▪ Theater seating capacity for up to 1000

▪ Performance stage area capacity for 100 actors / 250 graduates

▪ Consider space requirements for orchestra pit (60 performers)

▪ Consider space requirements for small adjoining Lobby Area

▪ Consider boys and girls dressing rooms (~ 1000 sf each)

▪ Storage room for stage equipment, scenery, costumes, emergency supplies (~1000 sf)

▪ Stage lighting system

▪ Integrated sound system

▪ Restrooms (boys, girls, adult)



▪ (2) Single basin sink, 10-12” deep, with high spouts / drinking fountain (locate backstage)

▪ Drinking fountains (locate in Lobby Area)

▪ Flooring: Carpet at audience seating, all other spaces resilient flooring

▪ Room Adjacencies: Adjacent to restrooms, music room, theater classroom, custodial room, parking lot, service drive


▪ Stage curtains

▪ Operable projection screen

▪ Consider Counterweight or “Fly” Systems for stage

▪ Acoustical wall panels and ceiling systems

▪ Bulletin boards at Lobby Area



▪ Display cases at Lobby Area

▪ Wireless microphone system


November 2008

11. MIDDLE SCHOOL GYMNASIUM


▪ Physical Education

▪ Community Use


▪ Area capacity for full basketball gym and bleachers

▪ Storage location for PE equipment (~300 sf)

▪ Pull-out bleachers (capacity for 300)

▪ Consider added space requirements for:

- (2) Offices: PE Staff and Afterschool Program Director (~ 100 sf ea) - (2) Locker Rooms - Aerobic fitness room (capacity for 10 pieces of equipment and mats) - Snack bar near main entry - PE Classroom (if existing classroom is not in close proximity)

▪ Restrooms (Boys, Girls, Adult)


▪ Integrated PA system

▪ Consider integration of operable partition wall for subdividing space


▪ Drinking fountains: Gymnasium (4), and Locker Rooms (2)

▪ Flooring: Hardwood with game lines (basketball, volleyball, badminton, indoor soccer, etc)


▪ Room Adjacencies: Adjacent to (1) PE classroom, kitchen, visitor parking lot, and service drive


▪ Up to (6) retractable basketball goals

▪ Electronic scoreboard


▪ (1) 4’ x 8’ whiteboard with map rails for all adjoining offices and rooms

▪ (1) Bulletin board (tackable surface) near main entry




12. MIDDLE SCHOOL COMMERCIAL KITCHEN (See Standard Elementary School)

13. MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER


▪ Assemblies for combined classes

▪ Dining

▪ Physical education

▪ Dance class


November 2008

▪ Large meetings (school and community)

▪ Theater program instruction

▪ Class productions / performances


▪ Area capacity for seating up to 130 dining and general assemblies

▪ Stage area: ~ 600 sf

▪ Consider stage lighting system

▪ Consider integrated sound system

▪ Consider adjoining secured storage area for tables, chairs, equipment (~400 sf)



▪ (2) Single basin sinks, 10-12” deep, with high spout / drinking fountains


▪ Room Adjacencies: Adjacent to kitchen, performing arts center, restrooms, music room, and service drive






▪ Consider utilization of portable stage

▪ Display cases

▪ Access to portable DVD / VCR player and associated monitor or digital projector and screen

▪ Movable tables and chairs

▪ Wireless microphone system

14. MIDDLE SCHOOL OUTDOOR FACILITIES (See Elementary School Outdoor Facilities)

15. MIDDLE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION AREA


▪ Primary check-in point for school

▪ Office space for School Administrative Staff

▪ Miscellaneous meetings

▪ Medical aid

▪ Storage space for school records

▪ Counseling for students and families

▪ Support for Organizations providing school programs



- Principal - Assistant Principal


November 2008

- Reception Area / Desk - Spaces for Counselors, Psychologists, Registration, Other Specialists (~ 10 spaces) - Health Office - Conference Room - Small Office / Meeting Room(s) - Staff Restroom - Health Office Restroom - Storage Closet

▪ Principal’s Office: in addition to space for desk / storage, consider meeting area for up to eight (8)

▪ Health Office: Area for (1) bed / cot, nurse workstation

▪ Reception Area includes space for chairs, free wall for bulletin board, clear path for deliveries

▪ Conference Room: space to accommodate meetings of up to 20

▪ At Principal’s Office - (2) exits: (1) direct egress, and (1) toward reception area

▪ Controls for PA, telecom, security, fire alarm (secured location near principal’s office)

▪ Utilize interior windows to monitor corridors


▪ Flooring: Resilient flooring at health office and waiting area; carpet at other spaces


▪ Room Adjacencies: Locate prominently next to school main entry; Restroom located directly adjacent to health office; clear site line for clerical staff to health office; near visitor parking lot.


▪ (2) Workstations with space for computers and free workspace at Reception Area

▪ Lockable upper and base cabinets at Reception Area

▪ Lockable storage for emergency equipment and medical supplies at Health Office

▪ (1) Bulletin board at Main Reception Area (tackable surface)

▪ Whiteboards at offices / meeting spaces




▪ File cabinets

▪ Display cases

▪ Computers and peripheral equipment for staff

▪ Copy machines

16. STUDENT RESTROOM (See Standard Elementary School)

17. ADULT RESTROOM (See Standard Elementary School)

18. CUSTODIAL ROOM (See Standard Elementary School)

19. STAFF LOUNGE (See Standard Elementary School)

20. STAFF WORKROOM (See Standard Elementary School)


November 2008

21. PUBLIC MEETING / RESOURCE ROOM (See Standard Elementary School)

C. DISTRICT FACILITIES

Following are core spaces for administrative and support staff use in the District. In addition to the requirements and considerations previously outlined, the following requirements are listed.

1. DISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE


▪ Office space for District Administrative Staff

▪ District meetings

▪ Board Meetings

▪ Record storage

▪ Food preparation / service



- Superintendent – confidential office - Executive Assistants to Superintendent – confidential offices adjacent to Superintendent's

office - Assistant Superintendents – confidential offices - Business Services Office – confidential office - Director of Maintenance and Operations – confidential office - Human Resources Department – confidential office - Director of Technology – confidential office - Department Support Personnel - Reception Area with semi-private waiting area - Large Conference Room (seating capacity: 50) - Small Meeting Room(s) (seating capacity: up to 8) - (2) Staff Restrooms (unisex) - Copier / Mail / Production area - Storage - Administrative Staff break Area / food preparation area

▪ Adjacencies: The District Administrative Office shall be located centrally in the District; consider location not within a school building

▪ Physical space organized by Department

▪ Public areas, including restrooms separated from confidential staff with walls and lockable doors.



▪ Flexible workstations and offices with space for computers and free workspace that can adapt to changing organizational structures

▪ Lockable storage for supplies and personal belongings

▪ Tackable surfaces

▪ Whiteboards at Offices / Meeting spaces



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▪ Kitchen equipment: refrigerator, stove, microwave

▪ File Cabinets

▪ Computers and peripheral equipment for Staff

▪ Copy machines

▪ Folding chairs (50) and tables

2. DISTRICT WAREHOUSE


▪ Storage for furniture, fixtures, and equipment storage (FF&E)

▪ Records storage

▪ Shipping and receiving

▪ Staging



▪ Fire suppression system


- FF&E storage - Locking separate storage of historical student, personnel, and facilities records - Text book storage - Teacher supply storage - KIDDO! Storage - District supply storage - (1) Staff Restrooms (unisex)

▪ Adjacencies: The District Warehouse shall be located centrally in the district, and directly adjacent to the maintenance shop, service road and parking lot


▪ Water tight humidity and temperature controlled storage area for historical records and text books

▪ Alarm system

▪ Raised loading dock for semi truck gate access

▪ Charging station for electric forklift

▪ Consider a moving multi level pallet rack system

▪ Flooring is resilient


▪ Industrial shelving

▪ Electric forklift

▪ Pallet jack

▪ File cabinets

▪ Pallet strapping equipment


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3. DISTRICT MAINTENANCE SHOP


▪ Office space for staff

▪ Meetings / break room space

▪ Flammable material storage space

▪ Carpentry wood shop

▪ District vehicle fleet storage




- Lockable paint storage - Lockable gas can storage - Lockable hazardous materials storage - 5 administrative workstations - District vehicle fleet storage - Building materials storage - Lockable tools storage - Storage for maintenance supplies (e.g. ballasts, fasteners, light bulbs) - (1) Staff Restrooms (unisex) - Copier / Production area

▪ Adjacencies: Shall be located centrally in the district, adjacent to district warehouse, service road and parking lot


▪ (4) Workstations with space for computers and free workspace

▪ Lockable storage for staff

▪ (1) Bulletin board

▪ Whiteboard

▪ Flooring is resilient


▪ Kitchen equipment: refrigerator, stove, microwave

▪ File cabinets

▪ Computers and peripheral equipment for staff

▪ Copy machine

4. INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL CENTER (IMC)


▪ Storage for Instructional Media

▪ Large and small group instruction / collaboration / research


▪ Minimum 4,000 sf

▪ Wireless access to WAN for teacher training

▪ Adjacent storage room (up to 400 sf) with open shelves


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▪ (1) Staff Restrooms (unisex)

▪ (1) Single basin sink / Drinking Fountain





▪ Adjacencies: Shall be located centrally in the district, adjacent to service road and parking lot


▪ One double wide door for deliveries



▪ "Book Drop" slot at or adjacent to entrance



▪ Librarian work station with space for computer

▪ Library checkout desk with space for computer

▪ Minimum 1,200 linear feet storage shelving for books and media with minimum 42" aisles between stack shelving

▪ Storage shelving unit height 72"

▪ Mobile book carts

▪ Computers (up to 5) with peripheral equipment



▪ (1) Copy machine


▪ Flexible moveable tables to use as meeting space, work tables, and sorting station

▪ Seating for 20 adults


November 2008


PART IV: SCHOOL SITE INFORMATION

Edna Maguire School 80 Lomita Dr, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Mill Valley Middle School 425 Sycamore Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Old Mill School 352 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Park School 360 E. Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Strawberry Point School 117 E. Strawberry Dr, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Tam Valley School 350 Bell Lane, Mill Valley, CA 94941

A. EDNA MAGUIRE SCHOOL

Edna Maguire Elementary School was opened in 1956 on an eleven acre site and currently has 51,132 square feet of buildings. Current enrollment of Kindergarten through fifth grades students is 413. Thcampus is surrounded by a residential area along the north, west and south border. The east is bordered byresidential and Ring Mountain Day School. The campus was originally designed as a junior high school. After the completion of Mill Valley Middle School in 1972 the school was closed for a period of time and then reopened as an elementary school. It is arranged in a “finger plan” configuration with buildingarranged in bar fashion with exterior walkways acting as corridors connecting th

e

s

e buildings.

School Culture

Edna Maguire Elementary supports a culture of inclusion and collaboration, supported by promoting high expectations for curiosity and risk taking. Lifelong learning and life skills, along with active hands-on experiences direct the vision of Edna Maguire School. Edna Maguire encourages the role modeling aspect of older students with the younger children.

This vision is supported with a close connection to the outdoor environment, resulting in a natural movement between indoor and outdoor space. The school community is environmentally conscious, blending the classroom and learning activities into the outdoors. The setting of the school lends itself to capitalize on the natural environment. One highlight of the school campus is the School’s Garden, which consists of one-third of an acre. The garden attracts community members including senior citizens groups and local garden organizations.

November 2008


B. MILL VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL

Mill Valley Middle School was opened in 1972 on an 18.28 acre site and currently has 103,745 square feet of buildings, containing 32 core classrooms and 17 specialty classrooms. Current enrollment of 6-8 grade students is 699. The school is located adjacent to local community resources such as the Mill VRecreation Center and Bay Front Park, and serves as an extension of these resources, inviting local non-profit agencies, service organizations, performing arts groups and other agencies with goals matching the Mill Valley School District’s Mission Statement aStrategic Plan goals, to utilize the facilities.

alley

nd

School Culture

Mill Valley Middle School strives to present a warm, welcoming and professional atmosphere that embraces the local community and introduces young adolescents to an educational program that specializes in academics and the performing arts. Mill Valley Middle School is the first site where all students and parents are able to establish connections across the entire Mill Valley School District, and serves to unify the community and focus support to parents. In setting the cultural tone, student work is displayed and publically “published”, allowing students to receive recognition for their growing skills.

C. OLD MILL SCHOOL

In 1918 school trustees were authorized to purchase the 2.5 acre Sulphur Spring block, between Elma, Old Mill, Lovell and Throckmorton, to build a school.

Old Mill School was opened on November 19, 1921 and currently sits on 2.5 acres of land in a fern and redwood canyon at the base of Mt. Tamalpais. The original structure is the oldest existing public elementary school building in Mill Valley. Major school renovations were completed in 1996 and the school currently has 29,102 square feet of building. Current enrollment of Kindergarten through fifth grades students is 300. The campus is surrounded by a residential area along the north, east and south border. The west is bordered by a high traffic roadway

next to a creek, community park and library. The Old Mill Education Specifications Committee identified the following core interests as having the highest priority.

School Culture

The community displays an intense pride in Old Mill School, which results in a very high level of parental support. Commitments of the school community are preserving the school reputation as a historical and vibrant place of learning, and enhancing the school and neighborhood environment. The school staff works as a team sharing the vision of “Hands on, minds on” learning as the theme of Old Mill School. The school emphasizes cross age teaching and sharing. The school community sees environmental awareness as a key priority and reinforces environmental sensitivity.

November 2008


D. PARK SCHOOL

Park School was opened in 1909 on a 2.37 acre site and currently has 36,746 square feet of buildings. Current enrollment of Kindergarten through fifth grades students is 332. Park was the fourth school built in Mill Valley. It was originally named Tamalpais Park School after Tamalpais Park, the first subdivision developed in Mill Valley. In 1934, a wing was built to the east of the original building, adding four classrooms. The Art Deco-inspired school building that now houses the main entrance and classrooms was built in 1939.

This school is greatly valued by the community and the neighborhood. Park Elementary School staff members recognize the important role that the school plays within the local community, such as sharing the school

facility, lending school resources, supporting community events, developing ties with local non-profit organizations, and generally serving as a good neighbor.

School Culture

The school culture encourages students to take risks and have a positive attitude; understand and accept responsibility; be reflective and able to focus; respect and work effectively with others; and communicate thought processes effectively and be organized. Students are actively engaged in their community as citizens, neighbors, and wise stewards of the natural environment. Connection to the natural world focuses students on their responsibility as contributing members of the community. Caring for the natural environment is a major theme throughout Park School. A school garden provides an “outdoor classroom” where classes study plant life, life cycles, and other life science explorations. A student-led recycling and compost program called the “Green Team” empowers the students to make a difference in their own community. In addition, several classrooms work closely with the STRAW project (Students and Teachers Restoring the Watershed) and take classroom time to restore Warner Creek located across the street.

E. STRAWBERRY POINT SCHOOL

Strawberry Point Elementary School was built in 1952. It currently sets a 5.4 acre site and currently has 36,778 square feet of buildings. Current enrollment of Kindergarten through fifth grades students is 323. The campus is adjacent to the San Francisco Bay.

The school originally opened in 1952 and served the community until June 1990. Due to demographic changes, the school remained closed for ten years before reopening in August 2000. Prior to the reopening, the original Strawberry Point facilities underwent extensive modernization. To accommodate student population growth in the Mill Valley School District, thirteen modular classrooms were added. This also was necessary to offset necessary

conversions of classroom spaces to administrative offices and school wide use spaces.

School Culture

Strawberry Point Elementary School supports a caring environment where uniqueness and differences are respected and all children are supported to reach their full potential. Staff and parents are committed to a tradition of academic excellence and social skill development. Children learn through investigations, explorations,

November 2008

experimentation and manipulation with materials to encourage discovery and understanding. The work is well matched to their needs and abilities. An assumption of success for each pupil is accompanied by realistic expectations.

The relationship with families is considered a partnership in which school and home share responsibility for children's learning. The children have more opportunities for meaningful, engaged learning and see the connection between the curriculum in the school and the skills that are required in the daily world. The school culture and core of its academic mission embraces the connection of the school site and learning to the natural environment. The school supports environmental, ecological and biological education through hands on activities in our on-site seasonal and tidal wetlands, and school garden.

Professional development for staff on collaborating with parents and families, learning about family dynamics and nontraditional family structures, improving two-way communication between school and home, reducing barriers to family involvement, and understanding diverse cultures enhances teacher and family communication and partnership relationships.

F. TAM VALLEY SCHOOL

Tam Valley Elementary School was built in 1951 on an 8.2 acre site and currently has 44,762 square feet of buildings. Current enrollment of Kindergarten through fifth grades students is 422. The campus is located in an unincorporated area of Southern Marin County, adjacent to the City of Mill Valley. The school is nestled in a quiet valley near Tennessee Beach. The school has been expanded multiple times and remodeled.


School Culture

Tamalpais Valley School prides itself on providing instruction through differential instruction, supporting students with special learning needs. Tamalpais

Valley offers a Learning Center for students with special needs. This Center uses a mainstream special educmodel.

ation

A sense of community and support for all students has resulted in a fully developed Student Buddy System in which students care for and assist other students. Students are guided in character building through the school culture with an emphasis on responsibility and other common positive character traits. Specialists work with children in areas of art, vocal music, instrumental music, technology, library, science and physical education. The library / media center serves as the hub of learning and unites the school around literature and technology.

In addition to focusing on the individualized learning needs of students, the school culture accentuates outdoor education by maximizing the natural setting of the site. Parent involvement and volunteerism enhance this focus through the development of a school wide garden, an enclosed outdoor classroom and other projects that bring students into the natural environment.

The culture of Tamalpais Valley encourages a close connection to the community. This connection is also exemplified by student alumni returning to the school to assist in community service, helping within the classroom and supporting school programs for current students.

END OF EDUCATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS

Documents

EDUCATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS · Facility Master Plan Committee ... parents and community members who contributed their time, effort and expertise to create this document. Listed below