Tuesday / November 15, 2022 / 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Education KC Tour: Belmont Cragin Elementary School
Belmont Cragin Elementary School, 6112 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL
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Join the AIA Chicago Education KC for an in-person tour to learn about the newly completed Belmont Cragin Elementary School (BCES) designed by SMNG A Ltd. and Forma Architecture. This project is the result of a collaboration between various local community groups, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), Chicago Park District (CPD) and the Public Building Commission of Chicago (PBC). The replacement school resides within the 57.3 acre Jacob Riis Park. Riis Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places with the adjacent Park District Fieldhouse listed as a contributing structure to the listing. The new school is connected to the legacy fieldhouse and features a joint-use gymnasium, stage and playground for use by both school students and park district patrons. The building is designed for LEED Silver Certification with the USGBC. CPD will be commencing a separate renovation of the legacy fieldhouse slated for completion in early 2024.
BCES empowers students and staff to strengthen their connection to one another and their community through a Reggio-Emilia inspired curriculum with dual language instruction, personalized learning and fine arts programming. An “atelier” (pull-in room) connects every two standard classrooms to provide flexible space for small group activities and tutoring. Additionally, the ‘Special Thematic Learning Space’ (or Black-Box Theater) provides space for smaller performances, community meetings and flexible learning opportunities.
Tour Guides:
Eben Smith, AIA, NCARB, NOMA- Director of Planning and Design at Chicago Public Schools
Todd Niemiec, AIA, ALA- Principal of SMNG A Ltd.
Luis Bolivar, AIA- Principal of Forma Architecture
Participants will be able to:
- Acquire an understanding of the collaborative programming and design process between CPS & CPD as well as various community entities including the Local Initiatives Support Council (LISC), Northwest Side Housing Center, Riis Park Advisory Council, BCES LSC, Alderman Reboyras (30th Ward) and more as relayed through the history of the project and building siting within Riis Park.
- Identify code requirements for the two adjacent buildings (CPS School vs CPD Fieldhouse) with distinct occupancy types, exiting and fire separation requirements. Define zoning requirements within the Planned Development specific to this project.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the building systems, material assemblies and maintenance schedules are implemented along with the Chicago Public School design guidelines
- Recognize characteristics of Reggio-Emilia inspired curriculum from touring the academic wing and develop an understanding of personalized learning including requirements and constraints.
AIA LU/HSW Credit Pending
Note: BCES is located along Fullerton Ave (CTA Bus #74) or is accessible by car. Please make transportation arrangements prior to the site visit.
To register, please visit our Eventbrite: Belmont Cragin Elementary School
