By Blaine Malefatto, Syntax

Jan. 30, 2024: Equipped with cardboard boxes and minimal art supplies, Bronxville Elementary School second graders – who had been learning about the characteristics of rural, urban and suburban communities – collaborated with their peers to create 3D models of sustainable skyscrapers.

Throughout the hands-on experience, the students worked with members of the educational organization ArchForKids. They built a strong base for their structures, designed windows and doors, and added eco-friendly elements, such as solar panels, large windows, gardens, trees, rain collectors and recycling bins.

“The students worked as innovators to create futuristic sustainable skyscrapers,” second grade teacher Lori Feingold said. “The students were creative and worked well together in groups.”

As part of their lessons, the students explored why a community is strengthened when community members work together – a concept that was solidified when the second graders worked on the team project. They also analyzed the traits of good teammates and determined what makes a team successful. They also discovered how communities change over time and looked at architecture through a sustainability lens.

“ArchForKids offered our students an engaging and interactive learning experience focused on architecture, design, engineering and urban planning,” Feingold said.

This year, parent volunteers supported the students as they planned and built their skyscrapers. Special thanks to the PTA for funding the educational experience.