21st Century Classrooms | Houston ISD

Molly Risdall Parnell, Smith System’s VP of Sales, gives her take on the topic of 21st century classrooms (via Houston ISD’s blog).

Here’s a snippit

… “21st century furniture helps teachers create more learning options in the classroom,” said Molly Parnell, vice president of sales at Smith System, a manufacturer of 21st century classroom furniture based in Plano.  … “Mobility is key,” Parnell said. “We don’t know where these classrooms are going 10 to 20 years from now, so we’re ‘future-proofing’ our designs.” … “Future-proofing” includes building durable, green-friendly furniture adaptable to changing technology and curriculum, she said. Another feature is making sure the furniture is ergonomically designed to fit young people so they are comfortable and pay attention. Smith System has furnished K-12 schools for more than 100 years, including one that just opened in Puerto Rico. HISD has bought computer desks and book trucks from the company, but Parnell hopes to work more closely with the district under the 2012 bond program to help create flexibility for teachers and students. … “Whatever it takes to make our schools look and feel 21^st century, the district plans on doing,” Hughes said. “By providing these resources, we’re aiding students and their ability to learn and achieve more.”

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