Illinois Association of School Boards commends design of A.E.R.O. Therapeutic Center, a calming environment for neurodiverse students
A.E.R.O. Therapeutic Center received one of only two Awards of Merit in Illinois Association of School Boards’ annual Exhibition of Educational Environments. The annual competition, juried by school administrations and design professionals, recognizes outstanding Illinois public school design. Judging criteria include how the facility meets 21st century educational environment needs, design excellence, energy reduction strategies, and safety features.
The 152,000-square foot facility designed by Legat Architects provides a nurturing environment with connections to nature for students with cognitive/physical disabilities and behavioral/emotional diversities.
“A.E.R.O. Therapeutic Center is a game-changer for special education facilities throughout the Midwest and beyond,” said A.E.R.O. Executive Board President Dr. Dan Riordan. “For the first time, we have a building designed specifically to meet the complex needs of our students and staff. The flexible classrooms, sensory-friendly environments, and enhanced safety features allow our team to provide personalized care and innovative programs that weren’t possible in the old facility. This center truly reflects our commitment to creating an inclusive, empowering space where everyone can thrive.”
Members of A.E.R.O. Special Education Cooperative and Legat accepted the award at the IASB/Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA)/Illinois Association of School Business Officials (IASBO) Joint Annual Conference, one of the largest annual education conferences in the state and the country. The A.E.R.O. project, Addison School District 4’s Indian Trail Junior High School Innovation Center (also designed by Legat), and 35 other projects were on display at the conference.
Learn more about how A.E.R.O. Therapeutic Center recalibrates special education facility design.
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