Monday, February 10, 2025
Students across all three schools in the Valley Stream District 24 are thriving in newly redesigned classrooms that foster student agency, collaboration, and technological skills. Developed as part of the district’s Vision 2030 initiative, these classrooms were thoughtfully designed with modern furniture, tools, and layouts to support 21st-century learning.
Superintendent Unal Karakas, recently toured the redesigned classrooms alongside Student Council representatives to empower these student leaders to provide valuable input as the district continues its redesign efforts in alignment with Vision 2030. During the visit, Karakas engaged with students in the redesigned classrooms and held a focused discussion with the Student Council representatives, interviewing them to gather feedback on their experiences and perspectives regarding the new learning spaces.
“It was inspiring to visit each school alongside our Student Council representatives and hear their perspectives on how these redesigned classrooms are enhancing student education,” said Karakas. “Our students shared their excitement and pride in advanced technological tools and learning in these innovative spaces. Their feedback is vital as we work to further transform our classrooms into dynamic environments that support 21st-century learning.”
The redesigned classrooms feature interactive whiteboard desks for collaborative learning, calming corners for focused activities, stationary bikes that allow students to work while releasing energy, and a variety of modern tools designed to promote creativity, flexibility, and technological skills.
“This beautiful new space provides students with a range of areas to participate actively in their learning journey,” said Pamela Fowler, a student council advisor and third-grade teacher of one of the redesigned classrooms at the Robert W. Carbonaro School. “It’s wonderful to see their enthusiasm as they jot down answers on whiteboard desks, enjoy a story in the cozy corner, or work together in small groups throughout the room.”
Karakas engaged students at each school by asking how the redesigned classrooms are influencing their learning experiences. Students shared consistent feedback, highlighting the flexibility, comfort, and access to exciting tools and technology that allow them to interact with their teachers and peers more effectively.
“This spacious, bright room with new floors, tables, chairs, couches, and a rug made me feel comfortable and calm,” said Ellice John, student council vice president at Robert W. Carbonaro School. “It feels like a place where you can truly be yourself.”
Student Council representatives also completed a Google Form survey to provide additional feedback. The results overwhelmingly indicated students’ excitement about the new learning spaces, with students noting how these modern classrooms make learning more engaging and enjoyable.
