Students across the state get chance to redesign their school

Students who think they have some great ideas for designing a 21st century school now have the opportunity to do just that - and win up to $10,000 in scholarship money at the same time!

The American Architectural Foundation has combined with Target to offer the Redesign Your School Contest for students in grades 9-12.

The goal of the contest is to encourage fresh thinking and novel ideas for learning spaces.

"This is a rare opportunity for high school students in Louisiana to add their voices to the national dialogue about how schools of the future will support student achievement and encourage innovative learning," said Lynn Robertson, Executive Director of the Louisiana chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

This year, the members of AIA mark 150 years of service to the profession and the nation's communities.

One requirement of the contest is that students incorporate at least one of the eight American Architectural Foundation Principles for Design.

The eight principles are: Design schools to support a variety of learning styles; Enhance learning by integrating technology; Foster a "small school" culture; Support neighborhood schools; Create schools as centers of community; Engage the public in the planning process; Make healthy, comfortable, and flexible learning spaces; Consider non-traditional options for school facilities and classrooms.

Students must register by June 15, and entries are due by June 30.

Information on the contest, along with a wide variety of resources, is available at www.redesignyourschool.org.

The contest is part of The American Architectural Foundation's Great Schools by Design initiative, which seeks to improve the quality of America's schools and the communities they serve by promoting collaboration, excellence and innovation in school design.

Questions? Comments? Story ideas? Contact Lifestyles and Sports Editor Heather R. Breaux at heatherb@heraldguide.com or call her at the office at 985-758-2795 x 215.