Osseo Adult Education Center

1. 2009 Exhibition of School Planning and Architecture Osseo Adult Education Center Brooklyn Center, Minnesota Other: Adult Education Project of Distinction – New construction ATS&R Planners/Architects/Engineers

2. Osseo Adult Education Center

3. Community Environment: ATS&R was the catalyst in a process that engaged the City, School District, Community Emergency Assistance Program and nonprofit organizations to plan a facility that would become a hub for human services and provide adult learners in the northwestern suburban and surrounding areas of the Twin Cities a new home. The building design reflects the unique needs of adult learners through customized configuration of multiple classrooms, computer labs, and a lunchroom that also serves as a multi-purpose area and student lounge. In addition to providing adult academic/GED classes, the Osseo Adult Education Center serves as an event and conference venue for community use. Daylight from multiple directions illuminates the warm colors and the patterns of the back entrance, making the center feel like home.

4. Learning Environment: Designed to support adult learners and the center’s staff, the Osseo Adult Education Center provides adult academic/GED classes in reading, writing, and mathematics for individuals preparing to enter the labor market or upgrade their level of employment. An individualized learning plan is customized for each student, with instruction designed to allow students to progress at their own pace. Computer labs and classrooms encourage students to utilize these and other common spaces for studying, researching, networking, and relaxing. Entering the center, its mission is to promote GED achievement through academic and English language instruction to adult learners.

5. Physical Environment: The use of daylight, warm colors, and the patterns on the floors and walls makes the center feel welcoming. The facility houses 14 classrooms, a large community room, two computer labs, two shared conference rooms, a lunch room with partitioning capabilities, and a teacher prep area and staff lounge. The center serves as home to 1,300 adult students and 40 Osseo Area Schools’ staff. Great care was given creating clear and safe traffic patterns at the Osseo Adult Education Center. With adult learners arriving by various modes of transportation, the center offers welcoming drop-off areas and entries for pedestrians, bus riders, and drivers. The center includes 14 classrooms, a large community room, two computer labs, shared conference rooms, and a lunchroom.

6. Planning Process: Working with Osseo Area Schools and the Adult Education Center staff, ATS&R designed the 25,500 square foot facility to meet the needs of these adult learners and planned for an expansion that will provide human services as a “one stop” service center. The lunchroom serves as the hub of the center, providing students with a place to socialize, study, eat, and relax between classes.

7. Future Addition

8. Exhibition of School Planning and Architecture 2008 Project Data

9. Exhibition of School Planning and Architecture 2008 Project Details